Maker Movement Approach to Computing (MMACs) at C3 - College of Information (INFO)

Maker Movement Approach to Computing (MMACs) at C3

Hands-On, Creative, and Engaging Computing Courses

The Maker Movement Approach to Computing (MMACs) at C3 brings innovation, creativity, and hands-on learning to computing education. These 1-credit short courses are designed to bridge the gap between technology and students’ personal interests, making computing accessible, engaging, and applicable to real-world challenges.

Each MMAC is built around interactive, project-based learning, offering students a low-pressure environment to explore coding, digital creativity, and computational thinking—regardless of their major or prior experience.

MMAC Courses Currently Available for Fall 2025

Knitting = Algorithms + Coding (INST388E)

Instructor: Pam Duffy
Knitting is a computational process! This course explores how pattern recognition, algorithms, and loops play a role in fiber arts. Students will learn how crafting techniques reflect core programming concepts like iteration and abstraction.

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Seeing the Internet (INST388G)

Instructor: Dennis Frezzo
The internet isn’t invisible! This course visualizes how data moves across networks, from browsing a website to streaming video. Through hands-on experiments, students will map, trace, and analyze the web’s infrastructure.

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Electronics for Makers (INST388F)

Instructor: Dennis Frezzo
A hands-on introduction to electronics, circuits, and hardware tinkering. Students will build simple electronic projects while learning the fundamentals of voltage, resistance, sensors, and microcontrollers.

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The Internet of Things (IoT) (INST388I)

Instructor: Dennis Frezzo
The world is full of smart devices—but how do they work? This course introduces students to the Internet of Things, exploring connected devices, embedded systems, and cloud-based interactions through hands-on projects.

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Social Media Feed Algorithms (INST388P)

Instructor: Jen Golbeck
Your social media feeds are shaped by AI-driven algorithms—but how do they work? This course demystifies platform curation, algorithmic bias, and engagement strategies, helping students understand and critically assess their digital environments.

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Search Your Passion! Finding Good Information Online (INST388O)

Instructor: Mary Ann Francis
Think you know how to search online? Think again. This course dives into advanced search strategies inspired by The Joy of Search, teaching you how to dig deeper, think critically, and uncover reliable information online. You’ll explore your own interests through hands-on research and creative, discussion-based activities.

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Interactive Fiction (INST388Q)

Instructor: Katherine Izsak
Explore the art of interactive storytelling using Twine. This course covers nonlinear narrative design, game mechanics, and multimedia integration, giving students hands-on experience in creating immersive, choice-driven digital fiction.

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Human-AI Fiction Co-Writing (INST388T)

Instructor: Katherine Izsak
This course explores co-writing fiction with AI, using tools like Sudowrite to blend human and machine creativity. Students will develop original stories while examining the creative and ethical dimensions of AI-assisted storytelling.

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Digital Music (INST388U)

Instructor: Brian Gillikin
Explore how music and technology connect by creating original compositions with digital tools. No prior experience with coding or music production is needed.

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Provocative Storytelling with Imagery and Data (INST388V)

Instructor: Francesca Polito
Learn the basics of visual storytelling across 2D, 3D, and immersive media. Create projects, explore time, perspective, and blending reality with AI-generated imagery and holograms. No prior experience needed!

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Past MMAC Courses

Course: The Quantified Self – Spring 2023; Wunderkammer – Fall 2023
Instructor: Jason Aston


Course: Transmedia Storytelling – Fall 2023
Instructor: beth bonsignore


Course: Data Storytelling through Creative Coding and Digital Dance – Spring 2024
Instructor: Bill Kules


Course: Knitting = Algorithms + Coding – Spring 2024, Fall 2024, Fall 2025
Instructor: Pamela Duffy


Course: Electronics for Makers – Fall 2024, Spring 2025, Fall 2025; Seeing the Internet – Spring 2025, Fall 2025; The Internet of Things – Spring 2025, Fall 2025
Instructor: Dennis Frezzo


Course: Intro to Pen Testing – Spring 2025, Summer 2025; Basic Ethical Hacking – Spring 2025, Summer 2025; Advanced Ethical Hacking and Defensive Blue Teaming – Spring 2025, Summer 2025
Instructor: Ido Sivan-Sevilla


Course: Personal Cartography – Spring 2025
Instructor: Brian Gillikin


Course: Search Your Passion! Finding Good Information Online – Spring 2025, Fall 2025
Instructor: Mary Ann Francis


Course: Social Media Algorithms – Spring 2025, Fall 2025
Instructor: Jennifer Golbeck

Student Projects

Enrollment

Who Should Enroll?

  • Students curious about computing but not sure where to start
  • Creative thinkers looking for ways to merge technology with their passions
  • STEM students wanting to explore computing beyond traditional coursework
  • Anyone interested in hands-on, interactive learning experiences

MMACs are offered throughout the academic year in Fall, Spring, and Summer sessions.

👉 Join an MMAC today and explore computing in a whole new way! [Insert course enrollment link or contact info]

 

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