There are a variety of INFO (or INFO related) courses being taught  this summer and fall. Please bring these courses to your students’ attention (most of these courses have no prerequisites, and are not limited to INFO minors!)

1.   INFO 490 RB:  Introduction to Data Science.  ONLINE!  The course will introduce students to the tools and technologies that are necessary to work with large data. Upon completion of this course, students will be expected to understand the basic concepts of data science from data acquisition through data understanding. Students will learn how to work at a Unix prompt and how to use the Python programming language to process, visualize, persist, model, and mine large data sets. Students MUST have access to a computer on which they can install software (in particular the virtual machine software).

1. ARTS 499: Makerspace.   This class will be taught both in the 1st 8 week session AND in the 2nd 8 week session, with a lecture and a lab component (in the FabLab). Topics include principles and processes of prototyping,  digital literacy,  Makerspace design and workshop development, and many more.  This is a great course for those students wanting to get hands-on experience working with digital fabrication equipment, 3D printers, etc. No pre-requisites, and this definitely counts as one of the upper level electives for the INFO minor! Though some seats are reserved for Art and Info students, there are also seats available to any undergraduate student.  LOTS OF SEATS LEFT!

2.  INFO 390 CC:  Computers and Culture.  Explores cultural ideas about computers, including hopes and fears about the effects of computers on our lives. Will analyze images of computers in fiction and movies. The course will also examine hackers, online subcultures, and other computer-related subcultures, and the integration of computers into various cultural practices.

3.  INFO 390 RGI:  Race, Gender and IT.  This course critically examines the ways in which information technologies are both the source and consequence of race and gender relations. Will explore theories of race, gender and technology and apply these to case studies of information and communication technologies (ICTs). Particular attention will be given to globalization, privacy and surveillance, labor, and “digital enclosures”.

4.  MUSC 424:  Musical Informatics. A 21st century approach to music theory: fundamental elements of music illustrated through logical and mathematical concepts, unencumbered by stylistic considerations. Defines the internal structure of sounds and presents a few general methods of organizing them into complex compositions. Intended for musicians having limited familiarity with mathematics, as well as scientifically inclined students with little musical background.

We have also increased the number of seats in INFO 202: Social Aspects of IT, and removed the early restrictions on INFO 303: Writing Across Media (which counts as an advanced composition course).

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