PSAM
5320

Making Wireless Toys

Parsons School of Design: School of Art, Media, and Tech

Non-Liberal Arts
Undergraduate Course
Graduate Course
Degree Students
Making Wireless Toys
Spring 2026
Taught By: Yuri Gitman
Section: A

CRN: 10696

Credits: 3

Play invites us to suspend judgment and logic, entering a "magic bubble" where joy and experimentation reign. In this course, we prototype wireless electronic toys, treating them as interfaces for open-ended play experiences. Electronic toys represent a compelling intersection of interaction design, physical computing, and playful expression. We begin by surveying the history and current state of the toy industry, then learn strategies for developing and playtesting prototypes. You'll work with motors, lights, sensors, and speakers, programming them to create responsive, interactive experiences that engage users through sight, sound, and touch. We'll use 3D design and printing to rapidly prototype enclosures and figurines/characters. In the first half of the semester, the instructor guides you through building a personalized Tamagotchi-style electronic toy. Building on these skills, the second half is dedicated to designing and building your own original wireless toy prototype, culminating in a working prototype that demonstrates your unique vision for contemporary play. Experience with Arduino or ESP32 is helpful but not necessary. Be prepared to learn basic coding and 3D modeling skills.

Open to: All University grad students, and upper level undergrads. Some seats have been reserved for MFA DT students.
Prerequisites: No Prerequisites
Co-Requisites: No Co-requisites

College: Parsons School of Design (PS)

Department: School of Art, Media, and Tech (AMT)

Campus: New York City (GV)

Course Format: Studio (S)

Modality: In-Person

Max Enrollment: 15

Repeat Limit: 2

Add/Drop Deadline: February 3, 2026 (Tuesday)

Online Withdrawal Deadline: April 14, 2026 (Tuesday)

Seats Available: No

Status: Waitlist*

* Status information is updated every few minutes. The status of this course may have changed since the last update. Open seats may have restrictions that will prevent some students from registering. Updated: 8:48am EST 12/16/2025