STS.035
From Analog to Agents:
Perspectives on the History of Computing
Final Project Guidelines
Final Paper: An 10-20 page paper is due on the last day of class (double-spaced, 1" margins, ~300 wds/page; pictures do not count for length). Papers should be detailed discussions or expansions of issues or topics raised during the course. Web projects are also acceptable, pending approval of the instructor.
Possible strategies include:
 | Comparing two or more complete works read during class (i.e. not only the assigned chapters) |
| Expanding material from a lecture with additional research |
| Tying the course together according to a single theme (e.g. human-machine interface, industrial context, etc.) |
| Writing a historical article about a computing technology (interviewing inventors, reviewing primary sources, etc.) |
| Composing a web page for any of the above (total amount of writing and research should be the same as for a printed paper). |
| Creating a simulation of a historical computer. Must be done in the context of a critical discussion of historical issues (i.e. what does the simulation tell us about the history?) |
April 24: One-page proposal/outline of the final paper will be due in mid-April, to allow for instructor feedback. Proposals should include:
What question are you trying to answer?
What is the historical significance of the question? (i.e. how does it relate to large issues?)
What type of research will you do to answer the question?
Proposed outline of the paper.
Proposals will be handed back by email. Students may arrange individual meetings to discuss proposals.
May 8: Final Projects Due
Writing assignments will be graded on force of argument, clarity of presentation and relevance to course material. Proper citation practices (i.e. footnotes or endnotes and bibliography) should be followed throughout (ask if you are unsure of the details). No late papers will be accepted. No exceptions.