Cognitive Science 0261 - Animals, Robots, Design

This is a hands-on course in which students will create mechanical animal models based on their observations of live animal behaviors. Mechanical models of animals are used in both art and science. Students will learn animal observation techniques, design and fabrication skills, basic electronics and simple programming. This is a class for students with skills or interests in any of the following: electronics, robotics, animal behavior, programming, metal, wood or plastics fabrication. This will be a highly collaborative setting in which students will be responsible for sharing their own specialized skills. Students can expect introductory assignments to learn basic skills, followed by a term project. We will also examine work being done by scientists and artists who combine the study of animals with robotics and mechanical design.

Independent Work There is a $60 lab fee. In this course, students are expected to spend at least six to eight hours a week of preparation and work outside of class time. This time includes both individual and group project work at the Center for Design, along with reading and writing.