This course provides a comprehensive overview of the history, current state, and future of digitalization in government.

The first section of the course will explore the history of data and technology in the government. From the early days of gathering census data to the rise of the internet and social media, we will examine how technology has transformed government operations, service delivery, and communication with citizens.

The second section of the course will focus on the current state of digitalization in government. We will examine the challenges facing governments as they attempt to harness the power of technology to improve services, increase efficiency, and enhance transparency. We will also explore the risks and pitfalls of digitalization, including privacy concerns, discrimination, data breaches, and cyber threats.

Finally, the third section of the course will look to the future of digitalization in government. We will examine emerging trends and technologies, such as data commons, cloud computing, or artificial intelligence, and discuss their potential impact on government operations and services. We will also consider the ethical and social implications of these technologies, and how they may shape the future of government and society.

Throughout the course, we will draw on examples from around the world to illustrate key concepts and ideas, and we will engage in critical analysis and discussion of current issues and challenges facing digital government. By the end of the course, students will have a solid understanding of the history, current state, and future of digital government, and be able to critically assess the opportunities and challenges of digitalization in government

Course goals:

1. Understand the evolution of digital government and the key technologies that have driven its development.
2. Analyze the current state of digital government and identify the challenges and opportunities facing governments as they seek to digitize their operations and services.
3. Evaluate the ethical, social, and political implications of digital government, and consider how technology can be harnessed to promote transparency, accountability, and citizen participation
4. Explore emerging trends and technologies in digital government, and assess their potential impact on government operations and services, as well as their potential risks and limitations.
5. Understand the relations between digital governance and key societal challenges such as poverty, inequality, environment sustainability, etc.