The High-Low Tech group integrates high and low technological materials, processes, and cultures. Our primary aim is to engage diverse audiences in designing and building their own technologies by situating computation in new cultural and material contexts, and by developing tools that democratize engineering. We believe that the future of technology will be largely determined by end-users who will design, build, and hack their own devices, and our goal is to inspire, shape, support, and study these communities. To this end, we explore the intersection of computation, physical materials, manufacturing processes, traditional crafts, and design.
Students with a strong interest in developing tools that empower others to work creatively with technology. Basic programming skills are essential, and applicants should also have experience in some combination of: electrical engineering, traditional crafts, industrial design, materials science, educational technology, mechanical engineering, sociology/anthropology, open-source/do-it-yourself development, textile design, and/or fashion design.
A portfolio of past work—which could include software, hardware, design, engineering, and/or craft projects—is required.
