THE DIGITAL AGE
An introduction to the history of the computer from the 1940s to the present day, major developments in computer science and technology in their historical contexts, and recent trends in computing and society. We learn about machines, but emphasize the study of people: the institutions, scientists, workers, and social movements that invented, facilitated, and transformed digital technology in the 20th and early 21st century.
Prerequisites & course information
Requisites: None Course Designation: Core GenEd - Humanities & Arts Breadth - Humanities Level - Elementary L&S Credit - L&S Liberal Arts and Science Repeatable for Credit: No Last Taught: Spring 2026 Learning Outcomes: 1. Identify key technological developments, periods, and themes in the history of computing Audience: Undergraduate 2. Analyze primary cultural and technical sources from the history of technology in the 20th century Audience: Undergraduate 3. Engage ongoing developments in computer science and digital technology with historical and critical perspective Audience: Undergraduate 4. Write and speak conscientiously about digital technology’s effects in society Audience: Undergraduate 5. Recognize factors that contribute to technological change Audience: Undergraduate Learning Outcomes: 1. Identify key technological developments, periods, and themes in the history of computing Audience: Undergraduate 2. Analyze primary cultural and technical sources from the history of technology in the 20th century Audience: Undergraduate 3. Engage ongoing developments in computer science and digital technology with historical and critical perspective Audience: Undergraduate 4. Write and speak conscientiously about digital technology’s effects in society Audience: Undergraduate 5. Recognize factors that contribute to technological change Audience: Undergraduate
Sources
- Course catalogue ↗2026-2027