INFO-686 Animals and Experience Design

3 Credits

Animal-Computer Interaction (ACI) is a growing field of study that examines the relationship between animals and digital technology. This includes designing and building technology specifically for animals, as well as creating tracking and monitoring tools for humans to better understand animals and how they interact within their environment, particularly in the context of wildlife biology and conservation. There are numerous contexts in which animals are already affected by technology, such as agriculture, zoos, and domestic pets, who often encounter technology in their everyday lives. Additionally, the natural world is increasingly mediated with digital technologies that have consequences for wildlife and animals who live in close contact with urban areas. This course explores different dimensions of ACI, including the theoretical foundations of the field and emerging methodologies that help us design for and with animals. Additionally, we will explore the history of animals in relation to technology more broadly, as well as the ethical, social, cultural, and ecological dimensions that inform our approach to creating and utilizing technology around animals and their habitats, with a focus on sustainability and multispecies futures.