University kicks off its Public Lecture Series with ‘The Curious Case of Social Media’

Dr David Webster will launch the 2017/18 Public Lecture Series by taking a closer look at the past, present and future of social media, asking is it the ultimate democratic ideal or just a dystopian disappointment?

The lecture, which will be held at Park Campus in Cheltenham on Wednesday the 11th October, will also consider how social media provides an equal platform where all can find their voice and explore the potential dangers of big brother’s data.

Dr Webster is the Head of Learning and Teaching Innovation at the University of Gloucestershire. He has designed the Religion, Philosophy and Ethics course to encourage students to embrace new technology in their work. In 2016 he achieved national recognition for his excellence in teaching, after being awarded a prestigious National Teaching Fellowship. He was also selected by JISC as one of the top 50 most influential higher education professionals on social media.

Dr David Webster said: “Whether we use Facebook to connect with our grandchildren, snapchat our best friend from the bus queue, live tweet as we watch Eurovision, or use Social Media professionally, its pervasive reach into our lives is huge. This lecture will try and take a big picture, and assess how social media relates to democracy, to our futures, and what those companies are doing with all that data.”

This year’s Public Lecture series programme has now been published, with upcoming talks exploring the future of artificial intelligence and the secrets behind the lucky scientists.

Admission to Dr Webster’s lecture is free, but tickets need be reserved in advance. The event is from 6pm at TC014, The Park, 11 October, with refreshments available at Elwes Reception from 5pm. To book your place, visit Eventbrite.

Details of our Public Lecture Series are available online.