GEG2123

Electronics, society and computers

(ENG)

L Spriggs

4 points + 26 lecture hours, 26 laboratory hours and 26 tutorial hours + First semester + Gippsland

Synopsis: Historical and current developments in electronic technology are surveyed to develop a perspective on the direction technology is taking, factors driving technological change and socially desirable future directions for change. Key technologies are discussed: communications (eg. ISDN, networks, optical fibre), computers (eg semiconductors, software, PCs, parallel processing), automation (eg CAD/CAM, robotics, AI), information (eg. mass storage, expert systems, hypermedia). Impact on social interaction, structure and instructions (eg. family, schools, work, property) are explored and students are stimulated to consider ethical, social and economic criteria in assessing impacts.

Assessment: Seminar: 25% + Assignments: 35% + Case study: 40%