Introduction to Social Computing

Johns Hopkins University via Coursera

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Overview

The course, "Introduction to Social Computing" offers a comprehensive exploration of the intersection between technology and society, equipping learners with essential skills in social media analytics and influence. By covering a range of topics from data pre-processing to feature extraction and model evaluation, students will gain practical experience in applying machine learning techniques to real-world social media scenarios. Through hands-on modules, learners will delve into the dynamics of socio-technical systems and responsible AI, understanding how digital platforms shape human interactions...

Syllabus

Course Introduction

The Introduction to Social Computing course explores the intersection of technology and social behavior. It covers fundamental concepts such as social computing, crowdsourcing, and human computation. You will delve into social media dynamics, including platform manipulation and data limitations, and examine the effects of network conformity and cognitive biases on online behavior. Additionally, the course highlights the history and impact of gamification, demonstrating how game design can enhance social computing applications.

Introduction to Social Computing

In this module, you will explore the fundamentals of socio-technical systems and responsible AI in the context of digital platforms. You will define social media analytics and delve into structure-based versus content-based analysis methods. You will also understand the role of social media and information in influencing and manipulating populations, providing a foundational understanding of how digital technologies shape societal interactions and behaviors.

Social Media

In this module, you will get an in-depth exploration of social media platforms, focusing on high-level analytics, legal issues, and the impact of firestorms. You will be able to define what constitutes social media and examine how it influences modern communication. You will learn about social media firestorms, their rapid escalation, and the implications for users and organizations. You will also explore social media platform manipulation and the challenges associated with collecting and analyzing data, enhancing your understanding of digital communication landscapes.

Network Conformity and Fake News

In this module, you will explore the dynamics of influence, network conformity, and cognitive biases in online environments. You will also understand how network conformity shapes beliefs and behaviors, and examine the phenomenon of majority illusion. You will also explore the neural basis of persuasion and the impact of cognitive biases on online interactions, equipping you with insights into combating disinformation and promoting critical thinking in digital spaces.

Games and Gamification

In this module, you will explore the evolution and application of gamification in social computing. You will learn about the history of gamification and its impact on engagement. You will also understand how game design principles enhance the usability and effectiveness of social computing applications. You will explore research in applied game design, equipping you with practical insights into leveraging gamification to enhance user motivation and interaction.