Computing Meaning of Code

3 Credits · Level: Undergraduate

This course is the undergraduate version of CCTP-5021. This course introduces the key concepts for understanding everything we call “code” and “systems of meaning” in ways that students can apply directly to advancing careers in any field. This course opens up the “black boxes” of computing for everyone, and is designed especially for students from non-technical backgrounds. But if you have done some computer coding already, you will understand more clearly how and why programming languages and digital media are designed the way they are, and how and why we can use “code” in one form (in the “digital language” of computers) for representing, processing, and transmitting all forms of the primary “code” of human thought and expression (in words, images, numbers, graphics, sounds, and video). In order to “crack the code” of all forms of code, you will learn multidisciplinary methods by learning how to combine and apply knowledge, concepts, and methods from several disciplines on our key topics. You will learn the primary methods and concepts from design thinking, systems thinking, semiotics (the study of sign systems), cognitive science and philosophy, and from key concepts in computer science Learning goals: This course will enable you to learn about computing and all forms of “code” in a new way, by understanding the history of ideas that led to our digital computing era and by actually seeing how it all works in “hands on” practice with software, programming code, and Internet apps. By learning the essential background on “why” and “how” everything we do in computing and digital media is possible by the way it is designed, you will also gain a new motivation for applying this understanding to both the “how to” side of programming (if you want to learn how to code and work with others in designing applications), and to working with others in organizations where design thinking skills enable you to take on a leadership role. The course syllabus, reading sources, and classroom exercises are provided on a custom website designed by the professor (https://irvine.georgetown.domains/711/). Requirements and Grading: The course will be taught as a seminar and will be based on student participation and in-class workshops. Grading will be based on (1) weekly writing, class participation, and group projects (50%), and (2) an individual final research essay or creative project based on applying the concepts and methods of the course (50%). Restrictions: Tech, Ethics & Society minors and Computer Science, Ethics and Society majors only.