Interdisciplinary Arts 0130 - Look Ma, No Hands: An Introductory design class focused on assistive technology

Look Ma, No Hands: An introductory design class focused on assistive technology: We will learn about some of the practical and ordinary problems faced by individuals who do not have full use of their hands or arms, then design, fabricate and collaboratively design assistive devices. Projects may be for children, or adults with temporary injuries/conditions or ongoing physical disabilities. We will also examine the concept of "Universal Design" - designing in a way that gracefully accommodates the range of human experience. Students in this class will develop problem solving, visual communication skills and a wide range of fabrication skills. There will be opportunities to work with the full range of materials and tools available in the Center for Design shop - such as metals, plastics and basic electronics. The curriculum will include weekly design assignments, guest speakers, readings, film viewings, discussions about the design process itself, as well as a major project. Keywords: problem solving, fabrication, accessibility, disability, design

Media and Technology Students should generally expect to spend 6-10 hours a week on work outside of class time. This course has a lab fee of $40.00. The content of this course deals with issues of Race and Power.