Course Description: EDUC 6426
Computer Interface Design for Learning
The purpose of this course is to introduce graduate students to human-computer interaction (HCI) in general with particular emphasis on HCI issues in education. HCI is defined as the processes and actions that a user employs to interact with a computer in a given environment (Preece, et al., 1994). At the core of HCI is computer interface or user interface design.
This course will examine general design issues important to both computer and non-computer interfaces. It will also review theories, principles, and guidelines related to HCI. Additional interface design topics include usability testing, interface presentation style, computer-supported cooperative work, and web design.
Students will be exposed to leading authors and researchers in the HCI and related fields. Students will participate in a mix of activities which are planned to provide a high level of active participation. An HCI project and research paper are the major product outcomes of the course. This project will involve the identification and evaluation of computer and non-computer interface designs that are problematic. It will also involve recommendations for the redesign of these interfaces.
Objectives:
- Describe the general topics associated with Computer Interface Design
- Analyze issues associated with Computer Interface Design
- Identify problematic and successful Computer Interface Designs
- Identify solutions for problematic Computer Interface Designs
