This course explores how new technologies can help people learn new things in new ways. It analyzes principles and strategies underlying the design of innovative educational technologies and creative learning environments, drawing on specific case studies such as the LEGO Programmable Brick and Computer Clubhouse after-school learning centers. The course will include hands-on activities, analyses of learning experiences, and design of new tools and activities.
Assignments
Weekly Write-ups
As you do the readings each week, choose an issue/topic in the readings that you find particularly interesting, surprising, or provocative. Write a few paragraphs about it, including why you found it so interesting, surprising, or provocative (e.g., did it resonate with a personal experience of yours?).
Final Projects and Design Briefs
For the final project, your assignment is to design a new tool and/or new activities that support and encourage creative learning experiences -- and to write a "design brief" discussing the motivations, rationale, and principles underlying your design.
You are welcome (in fact, encouraged) to work in groups. If possible, you should test your tool/activities with sample users.