Lee Blalock will be returning from sabbatical this Fall. Retro Tech Programming will be offered again in Fall 2026 on Mondays, 9 AM-3 PM. Seats are still available!
Retro Tech Programming ATSP 4132 (001)
This is a studio course that will make use of vintage technologies available through the ATSP Retro Lab. Students will learn early programming languages for use on some of the first home computers (C64, Apple 2E, Atari 2600) while deepening their study of creative computing. No programming skills are necessary, though experience with newer programming languages will only enrich your understanding of the content. Students will also have access to early 1970s synthesizers and image processing systems to combine techniques and create multimedia projects throughout the semester.
Lectures and discussions will be based around topics in software studies and the history of computing. Students should expect to produce weekly programming sketches, two significant projects, and a presentation on a topic of their choice relevant to the course.
Those who want a deep dive into the care of artworks made with vintage and retro technologies should also research the Preservation module of this course, which is offered in the spring semester.