After the seminar, the students will have a good impression on the social impact of digital infrastructures (databases, algorithms, etc.) and how we can critically reflect on their effects. The students will also be able to formulate ideas on how to research digital infrastructures and make the social aspects of these devices visible.

Critical reading of selected papers/book chapters, discussion in class, presentations of cases selected by students.

Digital Infrastructures are becoming more and more a defining element of contemporary societies. Thus, a critical reflection about the production and the power of these infrastructures becomes increasingly important. In this seminar we will examine selected cases of digital infrastructures, e.g. predictive policing, communication platforms like YouTube, predictions of diseases, etc. and discuss the implications of these infrastructures and how social values and norms are enacted and can be inscribed in them. In the first block we will reflect on the notion of digital infrastructure and how we can make the concept graspable. Later then, the students will select cases and present them to the class, after which we will commonly discuss them.

the ability to critically engage with academic literature, basic (!) understanding of digital technologies.

The following classes must be (successfully) completed in order to be accepted to the seminar:Successful completion of StEOP classes (Introductory and Orientation Period)Successful completion of one methodology class, e.g. Introduction to the Qualitative or Quantitative Methods of Media and Communication Research (Einführung in die qualitativen oder quantitative Methoden der Medien- und Kommunikationsforschung)Successful completion of Introduction to Scientific Writing in Media and Communication Studies (Einführung in das wissenschaftliche Arbeiten in den Medien- und Kommunikationswissenschaften)Successful completion of at least one proseminar (PS)

tba

The students have tohold a presentationhand in reflection papers on the read literaturehand in a seminar paper (Case Study, Theoretical Argument, or Book Review)

In their papers and presentations the students will show that they have acquired a good understanding of the challenges and possibilities provided by digital infrastructures, esp. algorithms and data production, in regard of their social aspects. Further they show that they are able make an argument for or against certain applications based on these concepts.The reflection papers will show that the students have actively engaged with the reading.

20% Reflection Papers30% Presentation50% Seminar Paper