Reading Like a Computer

This course uses a diverse set of assessment methods to evaluate your learning and growth. Assessment is ongoing and formative, with opportunities for feedback and revision throughout the semester.

Grading Components

Class Participation (10%)

Active participation is essential for success in this course. This includes:

  • Attending synchronous class sessions (TuTh 11:20-12:45 AM)
  • Engaging thoughtfully in discussions and activities
  • Completing in-class exercises and workshops
  • Contributing to peer learning and collaborative work

Note: Attendance is mandatory. If you do not attend class sessions, it will not be possible to complete coursework and receive higher than a C. Typically, 2-3 absences are tolerated.

Written Responses (20%)

You will complete 2 written responses throughout the semester, each worth up to 10 points.

Purpose: These responses allow you to reflect on conceptual issues raised in class, practice web-based academic writing, and develop a public scholarly voice. In particular this will fall just before the assignment for each section of the course.

Format and Length:

  • Typically 1,000-1,500 words, plus any needed visuals
  • Published on your individual course website

Types of Responses:

  • Reflective pieces on conceptual issues or course themes
  • Critical analyses of tools, methods, or course readings

Submission Dates:

  • Response 1: TBA
  • Response 2: TBA

Three Assignments (50% total — 10% first assignment, 20% for following)

These two open-ended assignments apply course methods to new contexts and texts.

Purpose: To develop practical skills in computational text analysis and to practice critical thinking and evaluation about technology and humanities data.

Format and Length:

  • Approximately 1,500-2,000 words each (plus visualizations)
  • Combines written analysis with digital outputs or demonstrations
  • Published on your course website
  • Media-rich format combining text, images, and/or interactive elements

Detailed instructions and rubrics will be provided in the Assignments section.

Submission Dates:

  • Assignment 1: TBA
  • Assignment 2: TBA
  • Assigment 3: TBA

Midterm and Final Oral Exam (20% total — 10% each)

The oral exams will cover readings, material covered in your assignments and any material more generally in the class. They will last 15 minutes each and will be in person.

Purpose: To demonstrate mastery of course concepts and methods through independent research and creative data storytelling.

Components:

  • Analysis of a text corpus using methods explored in class
  • Written component (1,500-3,000 words) critically examining process, results, and limitations
  • Digital visualization or interactive component
  • Oral response to questions about the class

Corpus Options: You may choose from provided corpora or propose your own corpus for approval.

Grading Criteria:

  • Quality and rigor of analysis
  • Appropriateness of methods to research questions
  • Critical engagement with findings and limitations
  • Clarity of communication (written and visual)
  • Originality and creativity of approach

Detailed instructions and rubrics will be provided in the Assignments section.

Submission Dates:

  • Project proposal: Friday, April 11
  • Final Project: Friday, May 16
  • Presentations: May 12 & 14

Grading Scale

Grade Percentage
A 90-100%
B+ 85-89%
B 80-84%
B- 75-79%
C+ 70-74%
C 65-69%
D 55-64%
F Below 55%

Learning Assessment

Beyond individual grades, this course uses the following methods to track overall learning and course effectiveness:

  • Self-assessments: Reflection on skill development and conceptual understanding
  • Peer feedback: Comments from classmates on presentations and written work
  • Rubric-based evaluation: Clear criteria for assessing quality and demonstrating growth
  • Portfolio review: Reflection on the collection of work completed during the semester

Feedback and Revision

  • Written responses and assignments will include instructor feedback with suggestions for improvement
  • Opportunities for revision and resubmission may be available for initial assignments
  • Office hours are available for discussing feedback and planning revisions

Course Policies

Attendance

Regular attendance is expected. Attendance records are kept and contribute to your participation grade. If you have circumstances affecting attendance, please contact the instructor as soon as possible.

Late Work

  • Work submitted after the deadline will be subject to a 10% deduction per day late (up to 3 days)
  • Work submitted more than 3 days late will not be accepted without prior arrangement with the instructor
  • Please communicate with the instructor in advance if you anticipate being unable to meet a deadline

Academic Integrity

All work submitted must be your own. Plagiarism and academic dishonesty will be handled according to NYUAD’s Academic Integrity Policy. Proper citation of sources is required.

Accommodations

If you require accommodations for a disability, please contact Student Services.