In the Computing Science and Society module, participants look at the development of Computing Science and its impact on society. In doing so, they learn to analyse the ethical and socio-political implications of various areas and applications of Computing Science and to develop their own well-founded position on this, particularly with regard to their professional responsibility as computer scientists.

To this end, teams of around ten students each work on selected topics from the field of "Computing Science and Society" and present their results at a self-organised final conference and on a website as well as in a paper.

The work in the individual self-organised student groups usually takes place in four phases, whereby iteration loops are generally necessary in the first three phases in particular:

• Research phase: Gathering and structuring information on the topic and, if necessary, working through it empirically in order to obtain further data.
• Reflection phase: Develop your own position and define your "message".
• Preparation phase: Find suitable forms of presentation and prepare presentations.
• Final phase: Carry out and follow up presentations.

The event is concluded with a (usually two-day) mini-congress at which the teams each have around one hour to present their results.

The module "Computing Science and Society" is part of the elective (compulsory) or area of specialisation. However, it is highly recommended that you take part in it, preferably in the fifth or - if you start in the summer semester - in the fourth semester. Knowledge of soft skills is a prerequisite; it is helpful to be familiar with Computing Science, its ways of thinking and working methods.

Registration for the course takes place via Stud.IP by the deadlines announced there. Please note that the selection of a group is mandatory. This usually takes place in the first week of the semester or after the opening event. More information on this will be provided in the Stud.IP course and in the first course.

The type of examination for the module "Computing Science and Society" is a portfolio. The following are assessed

• individual performance: This includes continuous active participation in the team, taking minutes and moderation and taking on special tasks and roles
• Team performance: The assessment of the team performance is based on the assessment of the partial portfolio performance.

Many thanks to Holger Dotzauer for the inspiration for the Computing Science and Society logo and especially to Elke Wilkeit, who has been instrumental in designing this module through her many years of support!