This module will be delivered using lectures, continuous assessment and practical work. Project work will consist of student research and the development of practical solutions to existing problems.
Module Aim:
To provide the student with a solid foundation in the area of Human Computer Interaction so that they can go on to develop their knowledge and skills in the area with the related modules that follow.
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this module the learner should be able to:
LO1
Understand the history of human computer interaction and be aware of the technology and current trends in user interaction
LO2
Justify the vital role played by interfaces in the usability and accessibility of all products and understand the human factors that must be taken into account when designing computer interfaces
LO3
Understand needs of diverse users and evaluate and improve the accessibility of a existing user interfaces
Pre-requisite learning
Module Recommendations
This is prior learning (or a practical skill) that is recommended before enrolment in this module.
No recommendations listed
Incompatible Modules
These are modules which have learning outcomes that are too similar to the learning outcomes of this module.
No incompatible modules listed
Co-requisite Modules
No Co-requisite modules listed
Requirements
This is prior learning (or a practical skill) that is mandatory before enrolment in this module is allowed.
No requirements listed
Module Content & Assessment
Indicative Content
The role and importance of the Computer Interface
This topic will stress the vital role played by the interface. History and current trends
Human factors to be considered
The senses;
Memory;
Models of cognition
Ergonomics;
Channels of human communication (text, voice, gesture etc)
Accessibility, Diversity and Inclusive Design:
Assistive technologies, best practices and regulations
Interaction methodologies and technologies
A review of interaction styles, input/output technologies, hardware strengths and limitations
Usability
Usability heuristics, principles and standards
Assessment Breakdown
%
Continuous Assessment
30.00%
Project
30.00%
Practical
40.00%
Continuous Assessment
Assessment Type
Assessment Description
Outcome addressed
% of total
Assessment Date
Examination
Assess knowledge and understanding of the role of human factors in interaction design
1,2
15.00
n/a
Examination
Assess knowledge and understanding of trends, usability and accessibility in interaction design
2,3
15.00
n/a
Project
Assessment Type
Assessment Description
Outcome addressed
% of total
Assessment Date
Project
Evaluate the usability and accessibility of a well known website, identify changes to improve the website with respect to usability and accessibility. A report on findings will be produced in addition to a formal presentation
2,3
30.00
n/a
Practical
Assessment Type
Assessment Description
Outcome addressed
% of total
Assessment Date
Practical/Skills Evaluation
A series of lab sessions supported by worksheets to examine and understand the role of human factors in new and existing interfaces.
1,2,3
40.00
Every Week
No End of Module Formal Examination
SETU Carlow Campus reserves the right to alter the nature and timings of assessment