Instructor: Dr. Nicki Washington

Course Description

This course examines how identity impacts and is impacted by computing. Through an introduction to identity as a social construct, we will explore the societal factors that have influenced present-day technology development and use, historical contexts, and the resulting impact on various communities.

Required Background

No prior experience in computing, humanities, or social sciences is required. This courses does not require or teach programming or CS constructs.

Course Materials

The course leverages news articles, podcast episodes, Ted Talks, interviews, documentaries, and books. All course material is available to students via the Duke Library or various websites at no charge. Students may choose to purchase any books at their discretion.

All course material is accessible via Canvas. We also use Ed discussion boards for class announcements and discussions. Students enrolled in the course have access to Ed via Canvas.

Areas of Knowledge

Social Science (SS)

Modes of Inquiry

Cross-Cultural Inquiry (CCI); Science, Technology, and Society (STS); Institutions, Justice, & Power (IJ); and Writing Modes of Inquiry(W)

Last Updated:1/5/2026