COMP 3451 - Human Computer Interaction Design

Course Description

COMP 3451 is the introductory course to interaction design from a human-computer interaction (HCI) perspective. Students will learn both theoretical and practical concepts of human-computer interaction that will help them produce user interfaces developed using a user-centered approach. Students will explore how cultural biases impact how we design computer programs, interfaces and AI programs. In addition, students will debate and discuss increasing concerns regarding the lack of cultural diversity in Machine Learning algorithms, which disadvantages non-privileged groups in society. As such, students will apply intercultural understanding to HCI to build inclusive systems. Further, students will test, reflect and revise their assumptions throughout the course to continually improve previous assignments, as the process of user interface design involves constant revision of existing systems.

Learning outcomes

• Demonstrate the basic principles of Human-Computer Interaction Design (HCID).
• Analyze existing designs and criticize them from a socio-culturally diverse HCI perspective.
• Describe which techniques and methodologies are available to enforce the principles of HCID, which go well beyond verbal communication.
• Produce program interfaces from a user-centered perspective and be aware of their own cultural biases in interface design.
• Demonstrate an awareness of how their own cultural biases impact computer program design.
• Apply culturally appropriate design principles to computer programming.

Course topics

• Module 1: A Brief Introduction to Human Computer Interaction, Interaction Design, and User Experience
• Module 2: Usability
• Module 3: The Process of Interaction Design
• Module 4: Data Gathering
• Module 5: Data Analysis, Interpretation, and Presentation
• Module 6: Establishing Requirements
• Module 7: Design, Prototyping, and Construction
• Module 8: Interfaces and Visual Design
• Module 9: Evaluation with Users
• Module 10: Evaluation without Users
• Module 11: Cognitive Models and Frameworks for Interaction Design
• Module 12: Social Interaction
• Module 13: Emotional Interaction

Required text and materials

Students are responsible for purchasing the required materials on their own:

• Sharp, H., Rogers, Y., & Preece, J. (2023). Interaction Design: Beyond Human-Computer Interaction (6th Ed.). Wiley. 
  Type: E-Textbook. ISBN: 978111990111-2

Note: This item can be purchased directly from the following link.

The following free e-textbook is recommended for supplementary information:

Assessments

To successfully complete this course, students must achieve a passing grade of 50% or higher on the overall course, and 50% or higher on the final mandatory exam.

Recommended requisite(s)

• MATH 1650 with a score of C or better
  Or
• MATH 1651 with a score of C or better
• MATH 1240 with a score of C or better
  Or
• MATH 1241 with a score of C or better
• COMP 2680 with a score of C or better
  Or
• COMP 2681 with a score of C or better
• Third year standing in a CS degree program

Or

Exclusions

COMP 3450