SRC@Brown CS

Through the Socially Responsible Computing Teaching Assistant (STA) program, specially trained undergraduate TAs are assigned to individual courses and work closely with course staff to develop content connecting the technical material in a class to its social context.

The goal of the STA program is to make critical thought about the social impact of technical systems an integral part of the design and development process. The purpose of embedding SRC content throughout the CS curriculum, rather than in a standalone course, is to repeatedly expose students to the social, political, and ethical aspects of computing and directly relate these issues to technical choices. STAs are a regular part of the course staff which enables them to contribute to both the technical and non-technical course content and help shape it to reflect the learning objectives outlined in the Socially Responsible Computing curriculum.

SAMPLE TEXT FROM OLD WEBSITE -- revise: Recognize that technology is not neutral, nor does it exist in a vacuum; it contains built-in biases that reflect the preferences, norms, and worldview of its creators. Build with everyone in mind. Understand and fulfill the responsibility to advocate against unethical product or research decisions.

Each course that opts into the STA program is assigned 1-2 STAs (or joint UTS-STAs). STAs work closely with course staff to develop content connecting the technical material of a class to its social context and consequences. Courses usually touch onresponsible computing multiple times during the semester, with coverage throughout the semester (rather than as an add-on at the end). In the past, STAs have embedded content in lectures, sections, labs, and larger technical projects. For more details, check out the specific course descriptions.

STAs get hired for specific courses for one semester. The STA hiring process starts early in the semester before the course is offered and runs in parallel with the UTA hiring process. In order to become an STA, you must currently be enrolled at Brown as an undergraduate or Master's student. You don't have to be a Computer Science concentrator in order to become an STA, though some courses require STAs to be familiar with the course material. You can find more information on the application process and whether STAing might be right for you here.