The module aims to introduce you, as a student with a STEMM (Science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and medicine) background to the theories and concepts from social sciences and especially the area of Science and Technology Studies (STS), which is concerned with the relationship between scientific knowledge, technological systems, and society. You will be able to engage in co-creation and responsible innovation in the areas of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Robotics and analyze consequences of these technologies in their historical, cultural, and social contexts. You will also be asked to apply the theoretical insights to real applications, case studies, and ongoing projects at Imperial College or with partners from industry.

You will learn about the political, cultural and social effects of Artificial Intelligence and Robotics. You will discuss the democratization of these technologies as well as the ever-pressing question, who is responsible for this technology? You will work with a group to delve into these subjects, as well as work independently.

By the end of this module, you will better be able to:

Understand and apply the main concepts of Science and Technology Studies (STS)
Discuss the different perspectives on co-creation and responsible innovation
Debate the societal impact of innovation in robotics and artificial intelligence
Assess the value of inclusion of external users in their design and testing
Apply co-creation to case studies and to the design of AI and Robotics solutions/innovation

The module will introduce you to the following theories and concepts from social sciences:

Social dimensions of technology
Empathising vs configuring the user
Democratizing innovation
Innovation governance and responsibility
Challenges of co-creation at the public/private interface