Community, Communication, and Computers
Spring Quarter 1999
"Global Forces and Local Spaces"
Eternal gratitude for all that is past.
Eternal service to all the is present.
Eternal responsibility to all that is future.
-- A Zen Monk to Huston Smith
Syllabus
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Rebecca Chamberlain Office: Library 1608 A |
Doug Schuler Office: Library 1602 |
This is the last quarter of a year-long program entitled Community, Communication, and Computers. We will concentrate on the idea of "community" as it relates to the themes we've been developing all year; different ways in which people communicate and receive information (including stories) that are important to their lives and to the life of the community.
Our modern world demands that we be well-rounded and flexible communicators. This intensive year-long program is for the serious student committed to exploring the relationship of orality and literacy, technology and society. During the year participants will develop skills as creative writers, storytellers and literate technologists. We will weave together strands from many disciplines including performance, literature, writing, media theory, political action, and technology studies. Activities will be designed for the beginning and advanced student and will encourage both collaborative and individual learning. Each student will be expected to master several critical computer skills and those with experience in computer technology will be challenged to advance their abilities.
Designed for both beginning and advanced students, activities will encourage collaboration as well as independent learning, identifying strengths and developing new areas of growth. Over the year students may receive credit in the arts, computer technology, folklore, writing, literature, history, political science, and communications or media theory. Instructional strategies include lectures workshops, performances, seminars (in person and on-line), computer labs, and other venues.
The program has several interrelated objectives:
• Increasing and enriching computer literacy.
• Understanding the challenges and opportunities of modern computing and telecommunications systems within a continuum of human culture, relationships, aspirations, and creativity.
• Developing and exploring innovative uses of communications technology in understanding artistic achievements of the past and challenges of the future.
• Combining and meeting professional and personal goals and aspirations.
• Making a contribution to our communities.