https://studiegids.vu.nl/en/courses/2024-2025/XM_0143At the end of the course, students will be able to: Develop an understanding of the socio-economic characteristics of marginalized and minority populations in the global North and the disparities in ICT access and usage. (Knowledge and Understanding)Elicit the specific requirements and limitations of marginalized populations and then propose tailored ICT solutions for them. (Applying Knowledge and Understanding)Analyze the potential impact and ethical implications of the designed ICT solutions on the target populations. (Making Judgements)Effectively communicate the outcomes of ICT needs assessments and solution proposals both in written reports and oral presentations. (Communication)Engage in continuous learning about the evolving needs of marginalized populations in relation to ICT applications and maintaining an adaptive approach to problem-solving in these cases. (Lifelong Learning Skills)This course will provide students with an understanding of the global North's socio-economic landscape and the marginalized and minority populations within it (e.g., differently-abled people, migrants and refugees, elderly population, ethnic minorities etc.) exploring disparities in ICT access. The course objectives closely align with several of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) such as Reduced Inequalities (SDG 10), Sustainable Cities and Communities (SDG 11), and Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions (SDG 16). We will discuss methods for assessing ICT needs for these populations through case studies and community engagement activities. Students will learn about designing inclusive ICT solutions also by working in a group project where they will propose and present a tailored ICT application. The course will also incorporate discussions on the effectiveness of public-private partnerships and policy implementations in fostering ICT accessibility in the Global North.The lectures will be delivered in an interactive seminar-style format. Prior to each class, students are expected to engage with assigned readings and multimedia resources to build a foundational knowledge base. During the lecture, students will discuss main insights and reflect on their own viewpoint in relevance to the pre-class materials.Assignment #1: group 30% Assignment#2: group 30% Individual presentation on a topic to be chosen from the given list by the lecturer: 25% Class attendance + participation (individual) : 5%+10% = 15% Each of the assignments should be at least graded with a 5.5 or higher and the total marks should be 6 or higher for a student to pass the course. One resubmission is allowed for Assignment#1 and Assignment#2 in case of achieved grade below 5.5. Individual presentations will not be conducted twice in any case.will be made available on Canvas.MSc CS, MSc AI, MSc IS