Training
Introduction
The redesigned RCS 109 Introduction to computer systems pilot course has embraces collaboration with faculty from various schools within Riara University and industry experts. Their valuable contributions has focused on integrating responsible computing elements, including ethics and legal considerations, into the course framework. This collaborative effort has encompassed course design, , implementation, teaching methodologies, assessments, and a comprehensive review at the conclusion of the trial phase. Several internal schools will play a pivotal role in this initiative, each contributing their expertise:
Land Registry App
Land registry in Kenya has been plagued by inefficiencies, inaccuracies and a lack of transparency, corruption and fostering disputes. Manual processes have failed to meet the demands of the modern people and therefore creating a need for a solution to elevate land governance standards. A solution we have come up with is a proposal of the development and implementation of a digital country-wide land registry application for our nation. In this proposal, key challenges shall be explored and addressed using the power of technology to ensure data accuracy, transparency and accountability. We will also outline how the application will integrate the RAPID principles – Responsibility, Accountability, Professionalism, Integrity and Diversity/Inclusivity. This was done proposing implementation of the following among others – protocols for Data Handling and Privacy: Implement strict protocols to safeguard data privacy, Voice Command Input for Visually Impaired i.e. Implement voice command input for visually impaired users to ensure equal participation in the system. User Reviews for Issue Identification i.e. Allow user feedback to identify system issues promptly. Also, another goal is to ensure the implementation of a comprehensive digital solution which will with no doubt contribute to promoting economic growth and also attract potential future investments or investors.
Muslima Connect
The system aims to work on improving the efficiency of the agricultural sector by improving market access and promoting fair trade practices. Farmers struggle to sell their produce at fair prices due to exploitation by middlemen and lack of direct market connections. The system aspires to create caters for this problem. The system connects farmers to manufacturers or farmers directly to consumers. This prevents price exploitation by middlemen and provides farmers with vast awareness of the market. The system would implement RAPID by ensures accountability by ensuring transparency in its policies and how it works, complies with the legal and regulatory frameworks and proposing to implement a USSD implementation for inclusivity.
Curriculum Redesign Integration Framework
The integration framework was developed as a guideline for redesigning Computer Science courses using the RAPID concepts and a problem-based approach. The redesigned curriculum would include updated content that included responsibility, accountability, professionalism, Integrity, Diversity and Inclusivity concepts. The teaching approach would also be the problem-based approach in order to develop innovative solutions that solved community problems. These solutions would also have the RAPID concepts incorporated in them. The solutions and activities would be assessed by a rapid based rubric that would be used to guide the learners in their solution development and activities and would also be used in grading the activities and the proposed solution submission. The assessments would be solution proposals for authentic problems, collaborative projects and portfolio submissions for purposes of reflection on the responsible computing in the course area. The integration framework was developed to provide comprehensive guidelines for redesigning Computer Science courses. The redesigned curriculum is based on the RAPID concepts—Responsibility, Accountability, Professionalism, Integrity, Diversity, and Inclusivity—and employs a problem-based approach to foster innovative solutions that address community issues. The elements used are described below:
Updated Content
Responsibility: Ensuring that students understand their obligations as computer scientists to create technology that benefits society while minimizing harm.
Accountability: Emphasizing the importance of taking responsibility for one’s actions and decisions in the field of computing, including the ethical implications of those actions.
Professionalism: Instilling a sense of professionalism that includes adherence to ethical standards, continuous learning, and dedication to excellence.
Integrity: Promoting honesty and strong moral principles in all aspects of work, from coding practices to data management.
Diversity and Inclusivity: Ensuring that the curriculum includes diverse perspectives and promotes inclusivity, encouraging students to develop solutions that are accessible and
beneficial to all segments of society.
Teaching Approach: Problem-Based Learning (PBL)
Innovative Solutions: Students will engage in problem-based learning activities designed to develop creative and effective solutions to real-world community problems.
Community Focus: The problems tackled will be authentic issues faced by the community, ensuring that students’ work has practical, positive impacts.
Integration of RAPID Concepts: All proposed solutions will incorporate the RAPID principles, ensuring that the solutions are responsible, accountable, professional, and inclusive.
Assessment Framework: RAPID-Based Rubric
Guidance and Grading: A RAPID-based rubric will be used to guide students in their solution development and to assess their activities. This rubric will ensure that all aspects of the RAPID principles are considered in the evaluation.
Assessment Types:
Solution Proposals: Students will develop and submit proposals for solutions to authentic problems, demonstrating their understanding and application of the RAPID concepts.
Collaborative Projects: Students will work in teams to tackle complex problems, promoting collaboration and diverse perspectives in developing innovative solutions.
Portfolio Submissions: Students will compile portfolios that reflect their learning journey, including reflections on how they have integrated responsible computing principles in their course work.
Implementation: Curriculum Integration
The redesigned curriculum will be implemented across all relevant courses in the Computer Science program. Faculty members will be trained on the RAPID concepts and the problem-
based learning approach to ensure effective delivery of the content. Continuous Improvement
The curriculum will be regularly reviewed and updated based on feedback from students, faculty, and industry stakeholders. This will ensure that the content remains relevant and aligned with the evolving needs of the field and society.
Community Engagement
Partnerships with local communities and organizations will be established to identify relevant problems for students to solve, ensuring that their work has meaningful and tangible impacts.