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Research & Analysis
Research Proposal: Algorithmic Literacy
ETEC 500 Research Methods
Keywords
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algorithmic literacy, digital media literacy, social media, algorithm-driven spaces, agency,
participatory cultures in commoditized spaces, filter bubble, echo chamber, surveillance capitalism
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Highlights Video
Reflection
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​Writing a research proposal takes an incredible amount of time to situate one's research interests within existing literature and to review literature to identify further research needs and gaps to make sure it is feasible and would make an important contribution to knowledge. In writing this proposal, I was able to apply skills learned in ETEC 500 while exploring the disciplines of digital and new media literacy, digital privacy literacy, and algorithmic literacy as an emerging field of study. I am intrigued by how algorithm-driven spaces, along with personal data, are being used to manipulate the content in which we are exposed to on social media and other online environments we use on a daily basis such as Google, YouTube, and shopping sites like Amazon.
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In writing this, I was able to define my research interests for a PhD program and have a research proposal ready for my applications. Only some programs require this as part of the application process but even where it is not required I have decided to use it as a writing sample.
Publication Information
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Author: Melissa Drake
Date: October 2020
Course: Non-coursework, informed by ETEC 500, ETEC 510, and ETEC 523
Professor: Dr. Jennifer Jenson at UBC and Dr. Jane Saunders at Texas State University provided feedback and helped me define my research methodology for this proposal.
Overview
This research proposal is a brief two page document that proposes to investigate Canadian postsecondary students' awareness, agency, and the effects of algorithmic instruction on participation in online spaces in an era of surveillance capitalism. The need for algorithmic literacy in curriculum is crucial for increasing digital literacies, awareness, and agentic participation in algorithmic-driven and commoditized spaces. Algorithmic literacy will bolster civic engagement and prevent infodemics and civil unrest.
Course Background
I wrote this research proposal and put it forth to the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC) in order to be considered for doctoral funding. This was written outside of the scope of a course, but coursework in ETEC 523 and ETEC 510 led me to my research interests and ETEC 500 gave me the foundational skills to be able to do it. I also accessed the Sage Research Methods portal through the UBC library, which was an incredibly helpful resource.
Overview
Course Background
Highlights​
Publication information
Reflection
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