An interdisciplinary introduction to the central frameworks that shape the relationship and application of computation in design. Students undertake theoretical and practical exercises on computational models — rule-based description, shape grammars, learning algorithms — and deepen their understanding of how computation in design intersects with some key issues studied in other fields, including computer science and artificial intelligence, art and architecture, philosophy and linguistics, and perception science. In addition to lectures and assignments, the course includes seminar-style sessions where students cultivate skills in speaking, writing, presenting, and engaging in intellectual debates on selected reading material. The final deliverable is a research-based project in the student’s chosen disciplinary area — architecture, visual and applied arts, engineering design, cultural heritage, or other. 

Prerequisites: Education or professional experience in a design area is highly desirable. Experience with computing is helpful but not required.  
 

This course is offered at SEAS as ES138.