Courses

Human-Centered Design

An introduction to Human-Computer Interaction practice and research. Topics include: the perceptual, cognitive, and social characteristics of people, as well as methods for learning more about people and their use of computing systems. The process of interface design, methods of design, and ways to evaluate and improve a design. Also highlights a number of current and cutting-edge research topics in Human-Computer Interaction. A balance of design, sociological/psychological, and information systems elements.

Rapid Prototyping and Design Patterns

Introduction to learn various ways to rapidly prototype interface design ideas. Explores the theory behind rapid prototyping and how it relates to Human-Computer Interaction (HCI). Students study low fidelity prototyping methods such as FIDO design and paper prototyping, and then move into higher fidelity prototyping methods, such as throwaway digital prototyping. Evolutionary prototyping and interface building using high-level programming languages are covered. In addition to software prototyping, students perform blank model prototyping for physical devices.

Interactive Systems Design and Implementation

An introduction to the fundamentals of implementing interactive systems, with a focus on human-centered design. Topics include: architecture of interaction applications, event handling, direct vs. indirect GUI programming, 2D graphics programming, layout, design patterns, and design critique. Students learn the fundamental theory of the Model-View Controller Architecture and apply it to building a complete standalone application. Outcomes include the creation of a full application with multiple different views that communicate with a single model, as well as experience working with GUI programming and implementing common interaction design patterns such as direct manipulation and drag and drop.

Interaction Design Studio

This project-based course focuses on a different topic or design challenge each time it is offered. Recent topics have included designing interactive systems to encourage elderly residents to be more physically active, designing interactive textiles for utility and expression, and designing interactive technologies for children with limb differences. Example projects shown.

Spring 2022 Projects