This paper describes development and evaluation of a freshman design course focusing on signal processing and communications, entitled ldquoThe Digital World of Multimedia.rdquo The course covers basic concepts of sampling, frequency analysis, and filtering without calculus but with coverage of these topics in both audio and image processing. Six labs provide collaborative, experimental learning as well as design opportunities. Connections to modern technology are provided in guest lectures and reading assignments that leverage IEEE magazines, and the topics provide opportunities for discussing the societal impact of signal processing technology.