Data and the University: A Transdisciplinary Conversation

October 22, 2020 -
12:30pm to 2:00pm

Abstract: This discussion will kick-off a two-part, two-year transdisciplinary examination of the collection and use of data in higher education. The initial focus will be on the collection, protection, and use of data in COVID-19-related risk reduction efforts to reopen universities, e.g. testing and contact tracing, and Zoom/classroom recording. Subsequently, examination will turn to the second focus: the use of data and predictive analytics in higher education to recruit, retain, track, and advise students—personalized education—and to guide resource allocation decisions within universities. All of these uses of data raise questions of governance, transparency, privacy, and potential unintended consequences, as well as foundational questions about the social roles and goals of university education. This discussion will introduce the project and seek participants’ ideas about what concerns, questions, priorities, stakeholders, and collaborators should shape it.

The url to join this discussion: https://pitt.zoom.us/my/pitthumanities

Co-sponsored by the Humanities Center and the Center for Bioethics & Health Law

Location and Address

Online