Monash University

Leader: Dr. Alan Dorin

Offered

Clayton First semester 2008 (Day)

Synopsis

This unit introduces on-line systems and the Internet as a specific example of an on-line system. Students are exposed to the various multimedia services which are possible in this client/server paradigm. They get first-hand experience with the creation of WWW content, and the tools which are available to help in this endeavour. The unit covers graphical user interface concepts, Hypertext Markup Language (HTML), principles of good design, usability testing, Web programming in a language such as Javascript, Perl, and the future outlook for on-line services. They are also exposed to the interaction of HTML and on-line databases, and other forms of interactive multimedia interfaces.

Objectives

At the completion of this unit, students will have an understanding of:

1. appropriate tools for modern web page design: Dynamic HTML, Javascript, Style Sheets;
2. understanding of how to program dynamic web pages via CGI scripts;
3. how to represent virtual spaces over the Internet using VRML/QuicktimeVR;
4. how to create appropriate media for visual, aural and text-based communication: animation, sound, typography, layout, colour;
5. cognitive models for human-computer interaction and how they may be applied to interface design;
6. user-centred design of electronic and physical artefacts;
7. user-interface design for maximising productivity;
8. information architecture appropriate for web site development.

At the completion of this unit, students will have attitudes that will allow them to:

1. appreciate the role of the user or consumer in the design of interactive electronic systems and devices;
2. understand the value of developing cognitive models from a human-centred perspective in the design and evaluation of interactive devices and systems.

At the completion of this unit, students will be able to:

1. design and implement an interactive website of modest complexity;
2. create and combine elements in a variety of media - sound, image, animation and motion graphics and interactive 3D.
3. effectively work in a small group to design and build a interactive media website;
4. apply critical analysis and judgement to the design and usability of interactive media works created by their peers.

Assessment

Examination 70%, Assignments 30%

Contact hours

3 x contact hrs/week

Prerequisites

FIT1008 or CSE1303

Prohibitions

CSE2325, CSE3325, SFT2200