Date: Thu, 17 Jan 2002 09:28:00 -0800 Reply-To: jpd@ics.uci.edu Originator: 36620-w02@classes.uci.edu Sender: 36620-w02@classes.UCI.EDU From: Paul Dourish To: Multiple recipients of list <36620-w02@classes.UCI.EDU> Subject: Essay topic X-Comment: I&C SCI 230 LEC A: SOC ANLY OF CMPTING Here's the topic for 230. Simon's "Sciences of the Artificial" is something of a manifesto, setting out a position for the scientific status of engineering design programs. Discuss his proposal in light of our discussions on the social nature of scientific knowledge and practice. For instance, to whom is Simon's proposal addressed? What is he trying to achieve? What does it require to pull it off? The book was originally published in 1969 -- how would you assess the situation now? This assignment is due one week from today, that is, Thursday January 24. Paper copies to me at my office, please. Your essay should be between 2000 and 3000 words. (Please include the word count at the end of the document.) The most important thing to remember when tackling this is that we want to think about these matters analytically. I'm not simply asking your opinion. Try to make use of the concepts and forms of reasoning from the other readings to think critically about the issues that Simon raises and to construct an argument in support of your analysis. The other important issue -- although I think I scarcely need mention it -- is to make your sources clear. In academic work, it's clearly okay to cite, reference, and quote other people's work, but make sure not to present it as your own. Put quote marks around quoted material, include references to show where you've relied on other authors, etc. --p.