Focuses on themes of contemporary science fiction and fantastic literature, concentrating on the short story form. Authors discussed in depth include Robert Heinlein, Theodore Sturgeon, Samuel Delany, Ursula LeGuin, Joanna Russ, James Tiptree Jr., Harlan Ellison, and William Gibson. Lectures and readings are supplemented with guest lectures by science fiction authors.
Presents intermediate techniques in black and white and color illustration, including ink wash, pencil on film and scratchboard, plus ongoing practice with pen and ink. Emphasis on conceptual illustration—how to convey an idea, process, sequence of events, etc., through visual means. Preparation of artwork for display and development of a personal portfolio is also covered. Appropriate for students with a demonstrated interest in science illustration through previous course work in science and art, or through extracurricular activity in the field, or a strong desire to learn the skills of the field. Enrollment process differs for Summer Session.
Introduces students to the communication of science in multimedia on the World Wide Web. The aesthetics, effectiveness, current limitations, and future potential of multimedia for communicating science are considered. Students critically examine exemplary Web sites where science is presented. Using the latest commercially available software tools, students learn to create their own original multimedia productions and put them on the Web.
Introduces students to the communication of science through the medium of radio. The aesthetics, effectiveness, and limitations of radio as a medium for communicating science are considered. Students critically examine exemplary science radio programs and learn to conceive and criticize story ideas, as well as research, interview, record ambient sound, and write narration for radio reports. Using the latest commercially available technology, students report, write, record, edit, and produce for actual broadcast a finished radio program on a scientific subject.