Random Tip

Challenge students to rethink their notions of computing and computers when discussing the social implications of computing.

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Exemplar Activity:

Lead a short discussion.

Ask students, "What does a computer look like?"
Direct students to draw a quick sketch of a "computer", then share.

Next, invite students to find examples of computing devices that do not fit the examples they drew.

Check out this interactive demonstration exercise, Thriving in our Digital World Ubiquity Demo, where students must find 6 computers in a picture of a NYC street corner.

Ask students to brainstorm characteristics all these examples have in common and characteristics that are different across these examples.

Compile these as a class.

Challenge students to find esoteric examples of computing.
Finish with a writing exercise using prompts:

What is the novel example of computing you have chosen?
How does it fit the list of characteristics outlined in class?
What prior technology or human effort does this example replace/streamline/support?
How does your example affect society/people/human effort?

This question is the most important question for covering social implications.
Make sure to ask your students this question whenever performing an activity like this.