4.580
Inquiry into Computation and Design
Instructor: Terry Knight
Office: 10-432M
Phone: 617-452-2922
tknight@mit.edu
Units: 3-0-9
Level: G
Prerequisites: None. This is a required subject for first year SMArchS students in Computation. However, it is open to interested students from other areas and departments.
Description:
This subject explores the varied nature and practice of computation in design. It is also an introduction to the different research and perspectives within the Computation Group in the Department of Architecture. We will consider the notion of computation broadly to include computing done by machine as well computing done by-hand. We will consider what aspects of design and designing are possible, useful, or desirable to compute or to automate. The aim of the course is to develop a view of computation and design beyond the specifics of techniques and tools, and a critical, self-awareness of our own approaches and assumptions about computation and design.
The semester will be divided into modules. Each module will explore a particular computational design theme and will include a guest faculty speaker. Readings and team-based assignments will expand on the themes introduced.
Grading:
Class attendance and participation. Completion of weekly assignments and readings.
