Statistical and Data Sciences 316 - Seminar: Data and the US Criminal Legal System

The United States criminal legal system is increasingly data-driven. Technologies like recidivism algorithms and predictive policing give the appearance of numerical objectivity. But, without sufficient context, one cannot understand how these technologies work or the data that they are using. This course introduces students to the theory and practice of handling data about the United States criminal legal system. Students engage with this material through in-depth reading about the history of crime, policing, and incarceration, discussions, research design, and large data-driven projects. Prerequisite: SDS 270, SDS 271, CSC 210, or CSC 235/ SDS 235, or equivalent. Restrictions: Juniors and seniors only. Enrollment limited to 12. Instructor permission required.

[CE] JR/SR only; Prereq: SDS 270, SDS 271, CSC 210 or CSC/SDS 235