Art and Technology
ARTC 4930 SEC 002
ARTC 5930 SEC 002

Professor: Adam W. Brown

W 9:30 - 12:20 pm
B 17 FJC
SP07 (January 17- May 4)

Office: FJC 411
Office Hours: Wednesday 1-3 pm
email: awbrown@ou.edu
URL: http://www.isisconceptuallaboratory.com
Phone: 405-326-8664

DESCRIPTION:
This course explores the relationship between art and technology. The initial part of the course will provide a historical overview that will attempt to create a "backdrop" or "framework" to contextualize the remaining substantive coursework. This framework will serve as a constant point of reference as we explore contemporary issues in electronic media. The course is divided among sections that include Historical overview, Hypermedia and Interactivity, Narrativity, and Biology, The Machine and Artifical Life. We will simultaneously examine the overall societal and cultural impact of the "digital revolution."

Class will consist of lectures and screenings of both scientific and artistic innovators whose inventions have lead to current digital art forms. We will investigate the growth of multimedia through pivotal essays and theories which have informed our present position within a mediated culture.

READING ASSIGNMENTS:
Reading assignments will be comprised of text books, handouts, reserve materials, and web pages. Students are expected to have readings completed by Thursday of each week. It is your responsibility to keep up with the readings; keep in mind that class lectures will not necessarily cover assigned readings. Exams will cover assigned reading material as well as information presented in class.

Required Text books:
The New Media Reader - by Noah Wardrip-Fruin (Editor), Nick Montfort (Editor)

* Text books are available at Amazon.com

ATTENDANCE:
Attendance is MANDATORY. Interaction and collaboration are an important aspect of the learning process and are critical for establishing trust among your peers. Please note that three unexcused absences will result in zero credit earned for this course. Furthermore, late attendance will result in partial absences. It is disctracting to the class and the instructor when students show up late to class. This policy will be strictly enforced. If you need to miss a class please contact me in advance.

GRADES:
Participation 10%
Midterm exam 30%
Research Paper (10-12 page) and Presentation 60%

LATE ASSIGNMENTS:
Late assignments are not accepted without evidence of an emergeny or a doctor's note. Email me asap if you are having an emergency. Incompletes for this course will not be given except in the case of a documented personal illness discussed with me in advance.

REASONABLE ACCOMMODATION POLICY:
Any student in this course who has a disability that may prevent him or her from demonstrating his or her ability should contact me as soon as possible so we can discuss accommodations necessary to ensure full participation and facilitate your involvement in the class.