Encountering Algorithms: An Investigation of Algorithmic Literacy Among Undergraduate Students

Abstract

Algorithms are ubiquitous, playing important roles in nearly every sector of contemporary society. This thesis investigates levels of awareness, and knowledge about, algorithms among a sample of undergraduate students. The project was divided into two phases, the first of which entailed conducting a systematic review of algorithmic literacy research published over the last 25 years in the fields of media and literary studies to ascertain how this concept is defined and the competencies with which it is associated. The review findings informed the second phase of the project which entailed conducting four focus group discussions with a sample of 25 undergraduate students. The findings suggest current frameworks and approaches to studying algorithmic literacies do not lend themselves to capturing the multiple dimensions and competencies undergirding this concept. This, in turn, suggests that there is much to be gained for focusing research and policy efforts on algorithmic literacies as opposed to algorithmic literacy.