Digital tools shape communication, identity, access, privacy, work, and civic participation in an increasingly connected world. Students examine ethical and social questions related to digital technologies and their impact on individuals, communities, and society, with particular attention to the Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing ecosystem. Through case studies, readings, discussions, and applied activities, students analyze ethical responsibilities, competing values, and social consequences of technological choices. Topics include digital citizenship, misinformation, privacy and surveillance, accessibility and inclusion, artificial intelligence, and emerging technologies. Students develop ethical reasoning, social awareness, and responsible decision-making skills needed to participate as informed and engaged digital citizens in diverse communities.

This course exposes students to the use of Linux and Mac systems for personal and professional purposes. Students will become acquainted with both the graphical interface and command line across various Linux distros. Students will learn basic Linux administration, Linux life cycles, basic network configuration, scripting, and navigation from a terminal window. Students will develop experience in management of their user environment, files, and directory structure. Students are also exposed to administering some common aspects of the operating environments such as groups, users, privileges, and process management.

This course will explore the unique computer and data security issues encountered by computer technicians. Using current computer security tools and procedures, students will develop more advanced skills in finding and eliminating security weaknesses, breaches, and malware programs. Computer security incident response procedures will also be introduced in this course. Hands-on lab activities will be used to reinforce concepts and to provide real-life situations that give students experience in handling suspected security breaches.