Maker Movement Approach to Computing (MMACs) at C3

Knitting = Coding + Algorithms

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.

Seeing the Internet

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.

Electronics for Makers

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.

The Internet of Things (IoT)

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.

Personal Cartography: Mapping Your World

Instructor: Brian Gillikin
Students will create interactive digital maps based on their personal interests—travel, urban exploration, outdoor adventures, or even their favorite books. Learn the basics of cartography, digital mapping tools, and geographic visualization.

Social Media Feed Algorithms

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.

Ethical Hacking Series (3 1-credit courses or 3 credits for the sequence)

Instructor: Ido Sivan-Sevilla

• Operating Systems – Identify vulnerabilities in operating systems and how to defend against cyber threats.
• Networking – Learn ethical hacking techniques for analyzing and securing networks.
• Honeypots – Experiment with deception-based security strategies to trap malicious actors.

New MMAC courses are on the way for Fall 2025 and Spring 2026. Stay tuned—we’ll announce the lineup as soon as details are finalized. Stay tuned so you don’t miss out!

• Science Fiction & Techno-Futures – Prototype sci-fi technologies while learning real-world computing principles. To be taught by Brian Gillikin.
• Interactive Fiction – Explore digital storytelling using Twine and nonlinear narrative structures. To be taught by Kate Izsak.
• Human-AI Fiction Co-Writing – Collaborate with AI tools like Sudowrite to create speculative fiction. To be taught by Kate Izsak.
• Synthetic Photography – Experiment with AI-generated imagery and digital compositing. To be taught by Kate Izsak.
• Improv for HCI – Apply theater techniques to human-computer interaction and UX design. To be taught by Meredith Kaumnitz.
• Computational Poetry – Write AI-assisted poetry using Python and natural language processing. To be taught by Kari Kraus. 
• Technology & Spectacle – Analyze and design large-scale interactive tech installations. To be taught by Alex Leitch.
• Building Twitter Bots – Learn how to program automated social media accounts. To be taught by Sean Mussenden.
• Cryptography – Understand encryption, security, and data privacy through hands-on activities. To be taught by beth bonsignore.

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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.