Module 1 Course Description

The technology landscape changes rapidly, and these changes have economic, social, and ethical significance for individuals, organizations, and the entire world. The Emerging Future: Technology Issues and Trends MOOC brings focus to the planning skills that are needed, the issues that are involved, and the current trends as we explore the potential impact of technological innovations. 

This six-week course is divided into weekly topics.  Each week we will focus on a specific topic, and you will be provided with a range of resources and activities that will enable you to explore the technology issues and trends.  You will be able to engage in activities, participate in discussions, and earn badges for achieving proficiency in each area.

The massive open online course (MOOC) program at the San José State University School of Information (SJSU iSchool) is a professional development opportunity designed for information professionals and those interested in the topic. The MOOC brings individuals from diverse backgrounds and geographic regions together in an interactive online learning environment to explore the latest trends in the information professions.

MOOC participants do not earn college credit. These open online courses are available to the public for free as professional development learning experiences.  The Emerging Future MOOC is a professional development opportunity designed for information professionals and those interested in the topic. The MOOC is not offered for academic credit. Students enrolled in the graduate programs at the SJSU information school who choose to participate in the MOOC will not receive credit toward their master's degrees.

Participants will experience an interactive online learning environment via a wide range of tools and diverse materials (e.g., freely accessible readings, recorded presentations, and online videos), and they will have an opportunity to:

  • Explore the current technological environment.
  • Network with global participants.
  • Become immersed in the literature and practices of current futurists.
    • Select appropriate resources to use in planning for new technologies.
    • Discuss key impact factors and trends affecting our personal and global existence
  • Engage with peers and instructors, heightening their learning and taking full advantage of this professional development opportunity.
  • Earn badges and MOOC certification on completion of activities related to each of the modules.