Monash University

Leader: Julie Fisher

Offered

Caulfield Second semester 2008 (Day)

Synopsis

This unit provides a detailed understanding of the underpinning theories, principles and practices of interface design for computer-based systems. It examines issues in the design of system interfaces from a number of perspectives: user, programmer, designer. It explores the application of the relevant theories in practice. The unit will cover topics such as methods and tools for developing effective user interfaces, evaluation methods such as the conduct of usability and heuristic evaluations, design of appropriate interface elements including the design of menus and other interaction styles. The unit will also focus on designing for a diverse range of users and environments.

Objectives

At the completion of this unit the students should have knowledge of:

1. The underpinning theories relevant to HCI
2. The principles and practices of HCI in designing user interfaces
3. The importance and role of usability and evaluation in systems design
4. The issues relating to user diversity, different types of systems, interaction styles, devices and environments.

At the conclusion of the unit students should:

1. Appreciate the development of systems from a user perspective
2. Differentiate between good HCI practice in systems development from other development practices
3. Formulate attitudes which enable them to interact effectively with users
4. Empathise with all users particularly those with specific needs

During the process of studying this unit students will be required to put into practice some of the HCI skills learnt including skills to:

1. Recognise the principles of HCI design required in systems development
2. Gather user requirements effectively
3. Design an effective user interface
4. Conduct appropriate evaluation of systems from a HCI perspective and interpret the outcome

As a result of studying this unit students should develop the skills to:

1. Work in teams to complete assessment tasks
2. Empathise with users particularly those with some form of disability

Assessment

Examination: 60%
Assignments: 30%
Active Participation: 10%

Contact hours

3 x contact hrs/week

Prerequisites

FIT2001 or IMS2805 or FIT2027 or CSE2200 or equivalent

Prohibitions

IMS3470, IMS2403, GCO3814, FIT3033, CSE3030, MMS2403, FIT2016 (Translation for IMS3470)