Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Spring 2025 - CA 241 B100

Creative Coding Lab (3)

Class Number: 6468

Delivery Method: Blended

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Mon, 12:30–2:20 p.m.
    GOLDCORP

  • Prerequisites:

    CA 143 or permission of instructor.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

An introduction to coding software for creative outcomes. Students will be introduced to basic algorithmic concepts used to generate and process music, sound, and fixed- and moving-image. Sensors and audio/video analysis will be introduced. The course will also include introduction to practical applications in generative art processes.

COURSE DETAILS:

No prior programming experience is assumed.

Grading

  • Bi-weekly coding assignments (6 x 7.5%) - Short assignments will be given that allow students to apply basic programming techniques for creative projects, including interaction, random procedures, loops, basic sound synthesis, algorithmic drawing, and sound, image, and video manipulation. 45%
  • Audio Project - Using techniques learned in class, including MIDI, basic synthesis, and sample manipulation and playback, create a short (1-2 minute) audio work that could not have been (easily) created in a digital audio workstation (DAW). 15%
  • Video Project - Using techniques learned in class, including video playback, constrained random selection, basic video analysis, and basic video processing, create a short (1-2 minute) video work that could not have been (easily) created in a video editor. 15%
  • Analysis / Sensor Project - Using techniques learned in class, including basic audio/image/video/ analysis, and sensor data analysis, create an audio, video, or multimedia work that includes interaction. 15%
  • Participation / Attendance - Attend all sessions (3 late arrivals of more than 5 minutes = 1 absence). Engage actively with others' work and process in weekly discussions and presentations. 10%

Materials

MATERIALS + SUPPLIES:

The course will be taught in SCA's Media Lab, which has up-to-date versions of the required software on all computers; all assignments can be completed on university computers.

Basic resources required if completing assignments from home:

• A computer (Mac or PC)

• Internet connection

• Max/MSP 8 software
  • Available to purchase from cycling74.com
    • $9.99US (approx. $13CAN) per month
    • $59US (approx. $78CAN) academic version annual
    • $250US (approx. $329CAN) academic version permanent

REQUIRED READING NOTES:

Your personalized Course Material list, including digital and physical textbooks, are available through the SFU Bookstore website by simply entering your Computing ID at: shop.sfu.ca/course-materials/my-personalized-course-materials.

Registrar Notes:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

SFU’s Academic Integrity website http://www.sfu.ca/students/academicintegrity.html is filled with information on what is meant by academic dishonesty, where you can find resources to help with your studies and the consequences of cheating. Check out the site for more information and videos that help explain the issues in plain English.

Each student is responsible for his or her conduct as it affects the university community. Academic dishonesty, in whatever form, is ultimately destructive of the values of the university. Furthermore, it is unfair and discouraging to the majority of students who pursue their studies honestly. Scholarly integrity is required of all members of the university. http://www.sfu.ca/policies/gazette/student/s10-01.html

RELIGIOUS ACCOMMODATION

Students with a faith background who may need accommodations during the term are encouraged to assess their needs as soon as possible and review the Multifaith religious accommodations website. The page outlines ways they begin working toward an accommodation and ensure solutions can be reached in a timely fashion.