PROJECT DESCRIPTION
INSTRUCTORS
SCHOOL SITE
LEVEL
SUBJECTS
To explore our personal relationship with technology and unpack the complex role it plays in our existence through interdisciplinary research, writing, and digital art production.
In this semester-long project, students explored their personal relationships with technology and the complex role it plays in shaping their identities and social experiences. Through interdisciplinary research, writing, and computer programming, students produced critical papers and interactive simulations designed to challenge audiences to think about their own digital consumption and its unintended and sometimes shocking consequences.
How does the user experience of digital technology change individuals physically, psychologically, socially, and economically?
Products
Interactive simulations and video games (Code class)
Art process journals (Code class)
Polished research papers (English class)
Aesthetic statements (English class)
Materials and Tools
Computers, Processing (open source computer language), Photoshop.
Computer programming, visual literacy, media literacy, audience communication, critical thinking, textual analysis, research-based essay writing.
Teacher:
I was really impressed that students tackled uncomfortable topics investigating their own technological addictions and susceptibilities to social media. It was also rewarding to support students creating interactive simulations informed and empowered by their research and visual analytical skills.
– Margaret Noble
It was so exciting to see the students’ ideas go from brainstorm stage to professional exhibition. Seeing their research essay writing skills grow throughout the semester, as well as their confidence as public speakers and critical thinkers, has been the biggest reward as a teacher. I couldn’t have asked for a better project for my first year at HTHTMA.
– Paola Capó-GarcÃa
Student:
Before this project I never really put much thought into how technology impacts people but now I am more aware of my surroundings and the devices we use. I am very proud of my project and the conversations I had with audiences regarding the negative impacts of social media.
– Belen
I was surprised to learn how vulnerable public cyber security has become due to a lack of information. My project made audiences reconsider their online habits and vulnerabilities. I am also really proud of the technical understanding I attained through computer programming.
– Isaac
