What does it mean to “use” a computer? How do you “talk” to the machine in a way that it will understand, and how do you interpret its response to you? Many principles of how we interact with computers are so familiar to us that we don’t stop to think how they came to be that way. In this class, we’ll discuss this history of how people have adapted themselves to these “thinking machines,” learn about many of the innovators who defined how we interact with computers today, and explore how over time we’ve changed the way computers work so they better meet our needs.

How it Benefits You

For anyone who designs, builds, markets, or manages digital products (like websites, software, or devices), an understanding of the foundations of the field will help you make more effective decisions. You will learn the essential history that shaped the industry, making you better prepared to face the challenges of tomorrow.

An Invitation

How will you use what you learn in this class? What topics would you like to cover? Tells us now on the class wiki.

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