Computer Science 341EA - Topics: 'Embodied Algorithms Design Studio'
Embod Algorithms Design Studio
Spring
2026
01
4.00
Audrey Lee St. John
TTH 01:45PM-03:00PM
Mount Holyoke College
130492
astjohn@mtholyoke.edu
Computer scientists often study algorithms at a high level of abstraction to enable mathematical tools; activities that make this more concrete can deepen learning. This project-based course challenges students to make the theory tangible through the design and fabrication of physical artifacts. Situated in the Fimbel Maker & Innovation Lab, students will be taught core "maker" techniques through hands-on lab activities while simultaneously being exposed to algorithms from computational geometry and beyond. Sample projects include: "triangulations" for 3D-printed jewelry; "hexaflexagons" for skirts with hidden fabric panels; "tilings" for laser cutting unconventional wooden puzzles.
Prereq: COMSC-205 and MATH-232.; Coreq: COMSC-341EAL
Multiple required components--lab and/or discussion section. To register, submit requests for all components simultaneously.