- Analyze the impact of emerging technologies on society and the environment.
- Articulate an ethical stance on issues like algorithmic bias or e-waste.
- Connect computer science concepts to real-world career paths.
Unit 6 Assignment: Tech Impact Reflection (5%)
We have explored E-Waste, AI Ethics, and Careers. Now it is time to synthesize what you have learned. This is not a research essay; it is a personal reflection based on the content we covered this week.
Your Task
Choose TWO (2) of the following prompts. Write a response of approximately 150-200 words (1-2 paragraphs) for each chosen prompt.
Option A: The Environmental Cost
Reflect on the concept of "Planned Obsolescence." Do you believe tech companies have a responsibility to make devices that last longer and are easier to repair, even if it means they make less profit? As a future consumer or developer, what choice can you make to reduce your digital footprint?
Option B: The Ethics of AI
We discussed how AI can learn "bias" from human data. If you were leading a team developing a new facial recognition system for a bank, what specific steps would you take to ensure your system treats all customers fairly, regardless of their race or gender?
Option C: The Future of Work
Identify a career field that is not typically considered "tech" (e.g., farming, fashion, sports, cooking). Describe how a specific computer science skill (like programming, data analysis, or automation) could revolutionize that job in the next 10 years.
Submission
Submit your responses in a single document (PDF or Word) to the "Unit 6 Tech Reflection" Assignment folder.
| Criteria | Level 1 (Limited) | Level 2 (Some) | Level 3 (Proficient) | Level 4 (Exemplary) | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | Understanding of Issues (Knowledge) | Responses show a limited understanding of the chosen topics. Arguments may be factually incorrect or unrelated. | Responses show some understanding but may miss key details (e.g., defines bias but doesn't explain its impact). | Responses demonstrate a clear and accurate understanding of the chosen topics (e.g., clearly explains the link between data and AI bias). | Responses demonstrate a deep, insightful understanding, making connections between the concepts and broader societal implications. | | Critical Thinking & Connection (Thinking) | Responses are brief and descriptive (just stating facts) rather than reflective. | Responses attempt to reflect but lack depth or personal connection. | Responses clearly reflect on the student's own role or responsibilities (e.g., "As a developer, I would..."). | Responses show high-level critical thinking, proposing specific, viable solutions or analyzing complex trade-offs. | | Clarity & Communication (Communication) | Writing is unclear or disorganized, making the argument hard to follow. | Writing is somewhat clear but may have significant grammatical errors or lack structure. | Writing is clear, organized into paragraphs, and effectively communicates the student's ideas. | Writing is persuasive, professional, and articulate, using precise vocabulary effectively. |