Language in Science Fiction
First Contact: Language in Science Fiction In this course we explore how humans conceptualize communication with extraterrestrial beings and artificial intelligence. Through fiction and film works in the “first contact” subgenre of science fiction, we will reflect on how language functions as a device in these narratives to reveal our own limited perspective, sense of in-group and out-group, and anxieties about the “other” and our own future. Students will learn critical analysis skills by dissecting the works of writers such as Ursula K. Le Guin and Ted Chiang; additionally, students will engage in thematic gameplay and creative writing in the genre.
First Contact: Language in Science Fiction In this course we explore how humans conceptualize communication with extraterrestrial beings and artificial intelligence. Through fiction and film works in the “first contact” subgenre of science fiction, we will reflect on how language functions as a device in these narratives to reveal our own limited perspective, sense of in-group and out-group, and anxieties about the “other” and our own future. Students will learn critical analysis skills by dissecting the works of writers such as Ursula K. Le Guin and Ted Chiang; additionally, students will eng …Read more
I am not particularly interested in science fiction, but I thoroughly enjoyed this class. The pace was chill but engaging, the subject matter was interesting, and the classroom atmosphere was ideal. Prof Harris is extremely qualified, helpful, and entertaining in lectures. She cares about students and gives great advice. I would repeat this course if I could.
Prof. Harris is absolutely wonderful, very friendly and holds a very good classroom environment. Only two writing pieces, with lots of time to work on drafts. The reading got a bit overwhelming at times, but always more or less manageable. A lot of the class time is spent discussing readings, so it's understandable, and the discussions were all productive and engaging.
This class wasn’t totally what I expected, but it was really interesting. My only complaint is that the readings felt like a lot sometimes, but there were only a few larger assignments so it was manageable. Professor Harris was very supportive and the classroom environment was great.