OK Robot Reboot

Society has always dreamed about humans coexisting with automatons, robots and talking machines that fit into every facet of daily life. As a consequence of computation and the internet leaving the flat screen, alternative forms of human-machine relationships are increasingly becoming more ubiquitous. Designing for these new machines brings novel challenges and requires a different approach. From HAL 9000 to early automatons, this class presents an overview of the history, methods, technologies, and design challenges involved in building and living with Robots and Social Devices. This class is conceived as a hybrid format (Lectures + Workshops + Discussions). Discussions and explorations will emphasize the cultural, political, and technical. Over the course of the semester, students will interrogate and deconstruct examples of Robots (in sci-fi, popular culture, art installations, assistive tech, connected devices), and design their own systems by appropriating existing technologies. Prerequisites include an open mind, the drive to make and Creative Computing or related experience.