PSYC 105-01, Human-Computer Interaction, Spring 2006

Abstract

Human Computer Interaction is the study of how users interact with computing technologies. Advances in the development of software and hardware have transformed our culture in the way we work, study, and play. There is a growing awareness among developers and users that technology often does not live up to its expectations. Consumers often find that it is frustrating, confusing and difficult to work with. The discipline of HCI, through its methods, techniques, and practices, attempts to understand the reason for this failure and to find user-centered solutions. In this course, we will consider the impact of technology on society and culture, and students will learn how to gauge the usability of digital environments, tools, and interfaces. Students will be exposed to the most recent research driving the design and development of the technologies that we use everyday. Class assignments and projects will include critiquing, designing, and evaluating interfaces, interactive software, and other frequently used technologies. Computer programming knowledge is not a requirement for this course.