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Making Data, Making Worlds: An Introduction to Data Practices
Last Updated: 2026-02-05 16:15:42
Abstract
Data are not neutral representations of external realities, but they are made by humans and imbued with interests, norms, and tacit assumptions. The aim of this course is to establish an understanding of how data matter in our construction and understanding of the world, and to draw attention to practices of their production, management, and regulation.
Objective
At the end of the term, students will be able to: • reflect concepts and theories that capture the performativity of data • reflect concepts and theories that capture the socio-technical nature of data • assess the implications of data practices for social and political ordering • identify key actors, sites, and domain contexts of data practices
Content
Week 1 Introduction: Making data, making worlds Week 2 How data matter I: Statecraft Week 3 How data matter II: Medicine Week 4 How data matter III: Artificial intelligence Week 5 Making data I: How to measure the world? Week 6 Making data II: Documentation Week 7 Data governance I: Privacy and Data protection Week 8 Data governance II: The right to be forgotten Week 9 Data governance III: Purpose limitation Week 10 Taking care of data I: Data quality Week 11 Taking care of data II: Fixing data Week 12 Taking care of data III: Preserving data Week 13 Exam
General Information
- Language
- English
- Levels
- DS , MSC
- Frequency
- Yearly recurring
Examination
- Type
- graded semester performance
Registration & Places
- Max Places
- 280
Course Components
| Type | Title | Time & Place | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| lecture | Making Data, Making Worlds: An Introduction to Data Practices |
|
2 h weekly |
Offered In
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Science in Perspective (In “Science in Perspective”-courses students learn to reflect on ETH’s STEM subjects from the perspective of humanities, political and social sciences. Only the courses listed below will be recognized as "Science in Perspective" courses.)
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Type A: Enhancement of Reflection Competence (SiP courses are recommended for bachelor students after their first-year examination and for all master- or doctoral students. All SiP courses are listed in Type A. Courses listed under Type B are only recommendations for enrollment for specific departments.)
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