| Unit name | Human-Computer Interaction |
|---|---|
| Unit code | COMS21301 |
| Credit points | 10 |
| Level of study | I/5 |
| Teaching block(s) |
Teaching Block 1 (weeks 1 - 12) |
| Unit director | Professor. Roudaut |
| Open unit status | Open |
| Pre-requisites |
None |
| Co-requisites |
None |
| School/department | Department of Computer Science |
| Faculty | Faculty of Engineering |
This unit introduces and explores systematic approaches to human factors in computer science. Human-computer interaction is a key issue to consider in the design and development of software, and in the evolution of technology policy and procedure. This unit considers a range of subjects in the field from user interface design to usability testing methodologies. We will address the design process, explore how to study user behaviour, and look at how others have produced theories to fit behavioural observations. Topics will include: the paradigmatic history of human-computer interaction; theories and frameworks of technology use; methods, methodologies and analysis techniques for studying people; techniques for graphical user interfaces and beyond; an interface's usabillity and universality. Tools and technologies supporting interaction design.
Aims:
This unit introduces systematic approaches to human factors in computer science. It explores how to understand users, and then provides techniques to apply that understanding appropriately in design.
Successful completion of this unit will enable a student to:
Apply appropriate techniques for designing interfaces
20 Lectures.
40% Exam, 60% Coursework
Alan Dix, Janet Finlay, Gregory D. Abowd, and Russell Beale (2003), Human-Computer Interaction, 3rd Edition. Prentice Hall, 2003. ISBN:0-13046-109-1 (essential)
