Welcome to the Center for Information Technology and Society at UC Santa Barbara

CITS is a vibrant and effective network of scholars dedicated to interdisciplinary research and education that seeks to understand and help shape the complex development, use, and social effects of information technologies. We foster cutting edge research across engineering, social sciences, and humanities through dynamic connections with academia, industry, and government.

Announcements

Dear UC Santa Barbara campus friends and faculty, A&L is excited to continue it's Justice for All series this spring with some new additions, including mathematician and data scientist Cathy O'Neil who will speak on Tuesday, May 3, 2022. 

WHAT'S HAPPENING AT CITS? 

Message from the Director (March 24, 2023)

Joe Walther

Joe: “ChatGPT, what’s new at the UCSB CITS?” 

ChatGPT: “As an AI language model, I don't have real-time access to current news or events. However, based on the latest information I have, the UCSB CITS (Center for Information Technology and Society) is a multidisciplinary research center that explores the social and cultural dimensions of information technology. 

The center's website provides information about ongoing research projectsevents, and publications related to this topic. Some of the recent research projects at CITS include exploring the role of technology in social movements, examining the impact of artificial intelligence on society, and analyzing the implications of digital privacy laws. Additionally, the center hosts talks and workshops, that bring together scholars, researchers, and practitioners from different fields to discuss and explore issues related to information technology and society.”

Joe: “That looks about right, but it’s much better with the links I added. ChatGPT, how can I stay informed about UCSB CITS events?”

ChatGPT: “You can stay informed about UCSB CITS events in several ways:

  • Visit the CITS website regularly: The center's website provides information about upcoming events, including talks, workshops, and conferences.
  • Subscribe to the CITS mailing list: By subscribing to the center's mailing list, you can receive regular updates about upcoming events, as well as news and publications related to the social and cultural dimensions of information technology.”

Joe: “Good job.”

--Joe Walther
    Bertelsen Presidential Chair in Technology and Society
    Distinguished Professor of Communication

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