Physical Computing: Interactive Installations and Tangible Interfaces

Instructor: Pamela Jennings

05-499 B, 60-429 A

10 units

Course Description:

Students, in the Physical Computing course, will be introduced to techniques for creating interactive installation spaces and design prototypes that extend beyond the limitations of the computer mouse, keyboard and monitor screen. Technical skills covered include digital and analog input/output techniques with sensors and serial communication using the Basic Stamp microcontroller and sensors. Students will learn how to build circuit boards, program the Basic Stamp microcontroller, and have the Basic Stamp microcontroller communicate with a desktop computer.

The emphasis in this class is the use of electronic technology for creative, critical and social purposes. Through readings, discussions, design of individual and collaborative projects, students will be expected to develop an articulate, theoretical basis for conceptualizing and discussing works presented in class as well as their own creative inventions.

Course Requirements:

This is an interdisciplinary course. Students from academic programs in Art, HCII, Design, and ETC are encouraged to enroll. Requirements for School of Art students include EMS I. Students from other departments should have the equivalent courses in multimedia, programming, or interaction design. Please speak to the Professor if you have any questions concerning the course requirements.

Note:

Physical Computing is one class with two unique course numbers to accommodate the School of Art and Human Computer Interaction Institute course schedules.

This course is also open to students in other related departments including the School of Design and the Entertainment Technology Center.