Class Detail

Algorithms shape race and gender today, yet algorithms are older than digital media and can be understood as recipes or rituals. Course engages with the emerging field of trans of color poetics by studying readings in women of color feminism, transgender studies, and decolonial theory. Digital media art grounds the discussion, including works from queer and trans artists of color working in digital games, anti-surveillance fashion and performance art. Students create digital media projects in response to the ideas of the course, in the medium or platform of their choice, including video prototypes, web sites, Scalar books, Twine games, podcasts and/or video channels, the technical aspects of which will be covered in class.

This course is completely online. There will be a once a week "real time" meeting on Zoom, as well as pre-recorded short lectures and online discussion forums. No prior knowledge of code or algorithms is required. The course is intended to educate students on the dangers, and the use, of algorithms across a range of media, and to make algorithmic media more accessible. The course will include teaching the details of software that students in the class choose to use to make their final digital media art projects. From TikTok to Instagram to police surveillance, algorithms shape race and gender today. Campaigns like #COLA4All and #BlackLivesMatter rely on algorithms to inspire large numbers of people to action. Doing so risks putting our social movements in the hands of corporations. Understanding algorithms is important for activists and artists to be effective today.

Days & Times	Room	Instructor	Meeting Dates
MW 01:00PM-04:30PM		cardenas,m.	07/27/20 - 08/28/20