COURSE SUMMARY

A scenario for manufactured difference has emerged from the convention of manufactured repetition. This new scenario is largely based on the digital technologies which persist in transforming design and manufacturing processes. This seminar proposes a fifteen week interrogation of digital mechanization through research of and experimentation with digital input and output technologies.

As designers we are challenged to form a productive relationship with this technology. In what ways does the advent of this technology lead us to invention? How do we begin to formulate new processes and new relationships? Our realm of study extends to all machines and tools at all scales. Our goal is to understand the place of digital mechanization as it promises to transmogrify processes, products and economies. Our discussion will take place with in the realm of possibility and discourse will be framed by the scenarios listed below.

SEMINAR WORKING METHODOLOGIES

Over the next sixteen weeks, the seminar will formulate a set of questions regarding digital design practices through assigned readings, presentation, discussion, and experimentation.

The class format is a follows:
TUESDAYS: presentation, formulation of course questions and discussion.
THURSDAYS: discussion of specific assigned readings.

The exception to the Tuesday/Thursday format is during the five weeks following spring break when the class will focus primarily on experimentation with digital tools.

COURSE REQUIREMENTS

The seminar will generate a body of research, primarily comprised of questions and observations regarding this technology. As a class we will keep an account of these questions and observations.

Assigned readings:
Reading is assigned each week and posted on the Thursday prior to the week it will be discussed. Each student is required to post a question on the electronic reserves site prior to tuesday's class under the corresponding class week. Your question is derived from the weekly assigned reading. Each student is then required to prepare a response to a colleagues posted question and discuss that response during Thursday's class.

The primary text for this course, including articles, chapters, charts/graphs and URL's, is posted on the course's ELECTRONIC RESERVES site. This site is accessed through the University of Texas at Austin Libraries link or at www.lib.utexas.edu.

Exercises:
The seminar will consist of three exercises. Two are assigned and incorporated into a regular Thursday discussion. In addition to these two exercises each student will prepare a presentation for one of the scenarios listed below.

Tool Experimentation:
Five classes following spring break will allow you to work on a specific design problem with iterative tools.

COURSE BIBLIOGRAPHY

A working bibliography for the course is posted on the course's e-reserves site.

GRADING

Assigned readings, response and discussion: 25%
Exercise 1, 2 and 3: 25%
Object Experimentation: 25%
FINAL Think Piece: 25%

ATTENDANCE POLICY

Seminar meets T, TH 12:30 - 2:00, Sutton 2.114.

Students with two unexcused absences will receive a full grade letter drop in their final grade for the course. Absences are excused only for medical conditions and personal or family emergencies. I will require written documentation for any excused absence.

A student who is absent from a class or examination for the observance of a religious holy day may complete the work missed within a reasonable time after the absence, if proper notice has been given. Notice must be given at least fourteen days prior to the classes scheduled on dates the student will be absent. For religious holy days that fall within the first two weeks of the semester, notice should be given on the first day of the semester. It must be personally delivered to the instructor and signed and dated by the instructor, or sent certified mail, return receipt requested. A student who fails to complete missed work within the time allowed will be subject to the normal academic penalties.

STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES

The University of Texas at Austin provides upon request appropriate academic accommodations for qualified students with disabilities. For more information, contact the Office of the Dean of Students at 471-6259, 471-4641.