The class will meet weekly to discuss book chapters and historical papers in computer science. Each student will lead one the discussion session and present summaries of the chapter/paper to the class. Many of these readings will focus on ethical issues in computer science, and the responsibilities of computing professionals.

Each week, students are expected to read the assigned chapters/papers and actively contribute to the discussion. Preparation, attendance, and active participation in discussions will contribute two-thirds of the discussion grade. The other third will be based on the session led by that student. For each paper assigned to a student leader, that student will prepare and present a summary of the paper, compile a list of discussion questions on that paper, and moderate the discussion session. Students will be graded on their mastery of the paper's content, the clarity of their presentation, and their preparation of insightful questions.

Discussion participants

For each assigned chapter/paper, you should keep 1-2 pages of notes that include the following:

• The identity of the author (e.g., education, position, reputation)
• The general context of the paper (e.g., year, publication type, intended audience)
• A one paragraph summary of the reading, highlighting the its key ideas
• Ideas/Arguments you found most interesting/compelling
• Ideas/Arguments that you found most confusing
• Three or more discussion questions that you would like to raise

You will hand in your notes at the end of each session (either by hand or through BlueLine). During discussions, you should be an active participant, and should always be respectful of others' views and opinions.

Discussion leader

Each student will be assigned to lead the discussion on a reading. In addition to reading the chapter/paper and taking notes, this should involve additional research into ideas/topics mentioned in the articles. Feel free to meet with the instructor if you are unsure about the content or relevance of your assigned reading.

As part of your preparation for leading a discussion, you should prepare a more detailed version of the participant notes (see above), which includes notes for yourself, a discussion outline (i.e., topic areas and specific discussion questions), and a rough plan (i.e., time devoted to each topic). You will hand in your notes in at the end of the session. You must also write at least three discussion questions and email them to the other participants by Sunday night, at the latest. In this way, participants will have the opportunity to reflect on these questions before the meeting.