Globalisation of Technology

Information and communication technology (ICT) serves as a central enabler and driving force behind globalisation processes. As global dynamics evolve, the ICT field continuously adapts, fostering more nuanced understandings of culture and innovative methodologies for exploring, analysing, and engaging with these complexities. This course provides an in-depth exploration of cultural differences and dimensions shaped by ICTs, equipping students with essential knowledge and skills in areas such as cross-cultural collaboration, innovative thinking, knowledge-sharing, and conflict resolution. These competencies will prepare students to navigate and contribute effectively to a globalised, interconnected future.

Language of Instruction: English

Students should be comfortable using literature reference managers such as Zotero, EndNote, RefWorks, Mendeley for literature search and proper citation. OsloMet’s library offers helpful courses in both literature searching and reference management and students are strongly encouraged to make use of these resources to strengthen their academic writing.

It is beneficial for students to bring an interest in how information and communications technology (ICT) interacts with culture, society and global processes. Curiosity about cultural diversity, cross-cultural communication and the societal implications of technologies such as artificial intelligence, data privacy, data security, cybersecurity and universal design will support engagement with the course content. Familiarity with collaborative work, reflective analysis and reading academic or professional literature related to technology and society is helpful, but not required. Students who are motivated to explore how technological solutions are shaped by (and shape) cultural contexts, accessibility and global inequalities will be well equipped to succeed in this course.

No formal requirements over and above the admission requirements.

A student who has completed this course should have the following learning outcomes, defined in terms of knowledge, skills and general competence:

Knowledge

On successful completion of this course the student has:

• advanced knowledge of cultural differences and dimensions related to artificial intelligence, data privacy, data security, information security, cybersecurity, and universal design
• advanced knowledge of how the world changes constantly and how these changes can develop new methodologies for exploring, understanding, and analysing cultural differences and dimensions
• advanced knowledge of technology, best practices and development processes for information and communications technology (ICT) solutions
• advanced knowledge of analysing the cultural conditions and perspectives that lead to communication gaps and digital divides.

Skills

On successful completion of this course the student can:

• carry out necessary analysis and testing across cultures
• design culturally neutral prototypes
• use knowledge of different cultures and group dynamics to communicate, collaborate and resolve conflicts, now and in the future
• act objectively when carrying out evaluations and have knowledge about their own impact on processes and results.

General competence

On successful completion of this course the student can:

• analyse and understand academic, professional and ethical issues related to accessibility in diverse cultures
• apply knowledge and skills in artificial intelligence, data privacy, data security, information security, cybersecurity and universal design of information and communications technology (ICT) to solve accessibility challenges in diverse cultures
• provide comprehensive independent study and master expressions and terms in the field
• contribute to cross-cultural collaboration, new thinking, knowledge-sharing and innovation processes.

The course is organised as a series of lectures, seminars and guest lectures that cover the main theories.

The following required coursework must be completed and approved before the student is eligible to take the exam:

• Paper seminar presentation and peer review: Students must, in groups of up to three students, deliver one oral paper presentation based on an assigned academic paper from either Cross-Cultural Design (CCD) or Global Software Development (GSD). In addition, each student must complete an individual peer-review activity in Canvas based on an assigned paper from the other thematic category.

• Project report plan and project development presentation:Students must submit and gain approval for a project report plan, either individually or in groups of up to three students, before developing the final project report. Students must also give a short oral presentation of their project plan. The project report plan and participation in the project development presentation must be completed and approved.

The project report counts 100% of the final grade and must follow these word limits, including a +/- 20% margin:

• Individual submission: 6 000 words (acceptable range: 4 800-7 200 words)
• Two students collaborating: 9 000 words (acceptable range: 7 200-10 800 words)
• Three students collaborating: 12 000 words (acceptable range: 9 600-14 400 words)

Groups larger than three students are not permitted. Detailed guidelines for the project report will be provided at the start of the course. The exams can be appealed.

New/postponed exam

In case of failed exam or legal absence, the student may apply for a new or postponed exam. New or postponed exams are offered within a reasonable time span following the regular exam. The student is responsible for registering for a new/postponed exam within the time limits set by OsloMet. The Regulations for new or postponed examinations are available in Regulations relating to studies and examinations at OsloMet.

All aids are permitted, provided the rules for plagiarism and source referencing are complied with.

Grade scale A-F.

One internal examiner. External examiners are used periodically.

Assistant Professor Nuno Marques and Associate Professor Sylvia Irene Lysgård