Internet Censorship and Online Speech
Course Code
CMSC 33260 91
Cross Listed Course Code(s)
MADD 23620, PARR 33260
Course Description
Information dissemination and online discourse on the Internet are subject to the algorithms and filters that operate on Internet infrastructure, from network firewalls to search engines. This course will explore the technologies that are used to control access to online speech and information, and cutting-edge technologies that can empower citizens in the face of these information controls. You will learn about and experiment with technologies to control online discourse, ranging from firewalls that perform network traffic filtering to algorithms for content personalization and content moderation.
We will also explore underlying technical trends, such as the increasing consolidation of Internet infrastructure and protocols, and the implications of consolidation for control over online discourse.
Each course meeting will include a technical overview, reading discussion, and a hands-on laboratory activity.
Course Criteria
Some experience with Python may be helpful but is not strictly necessary.
This course is primarily comprised of undergraduate students. A select number of places are reserved for advanced high school students.
The cost of this course for pre-college students is $4,790
Instructor(s)
Nick Feamster