615-348 Human Computer Interaction

Students enrolled in the BSc, BASc or a combined BSc course (except for the BSc/BIS) will receive science credit for the completion of this subject.

Credit cannot be granted for both this subject and 433-371.

50 points of 200-level subjects. Some familiarity with systems analysis and design would be an advantage.

Aspects of the following topics will be considered: theoretical foundations (conceptual theories, user characteristics, user modeling); UI technology (human-computer dialogues and input technology); and usability engineering (user-centred design; user needs analysis; participatory design and usability evaluation). Other issues in HCI will also be introduced.

At the completion of this subject, students should:

• have knowledge of the cognitive and social factors that can make interactive software effective;

• understand and be able to apply user-centred design techniques;

• be aware of the range of design principles and guidelines that can assist user interface designers, and understand the limitations of such guidelines; and

• understand the advantages and disadvantages of usability engineering and various approaches available.

Students will develop skills in report writing, oral communication, independent learning skills, public presentation and teamwork.

A 2-hour end-of-semester written examination (50%); individual and/or group work to a maximum of 6000 words (50%).

• J Preece et al, Interaction Design: Beyond Human Computer Interaction. John Wiley 2002.