This course examines how U.S. cultures are constructed, reinforced, and changed--particularly in reference to place and material culture. Qualitative and quantitative methods of analysis drawn from several disciplines will help students develop skills in cultural interpretation. Case studies may focus on a neighborhood, a city, or a region. Topics will vary from semester to semester. This course may include discussion sections depending on available funding. Some versions of this course need four in-class contact hours because of the extensive use of media.

What is technology, and where does it come from? Relatedly, what does it mean to design the future? Where does such work take place, who does it, and how? In this class, we will look at the intersection of technology, design, and the arts, and attempt to build answers to these and other, similar questions. To tackle this topic, we will explore examples that range from two dimensions to three (and perhaps four), from small consumer objects through to entire cities. Beyond these designed things themselves, we will engage with illustrations, drawings, renderings, and simulations, as well as literature, music, paintings, television, film, and games. Our primary goals are twofold. First, students will develop a working knowledge of various processes of design within American cultures, both historically (reaching back into the 20th century) and in the present moment. Second, students will learn and try out the ability to “read” material objects as a valid source of knowledge, both widening and developing their capacity for analysis and critique.

Repeat Rules

Requirements class fulfills