DH1623 Human-Computer Interaction, Basic theory 4.5 credits
This introductory Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) course presents an overview of human prerequisites and consequences of using information technology as a tool for solving tasks. User interface design is a central part of making an adequate cooperation between humans and technology, but there are few ready to use solutions. Even if interface design is generally associated with human-computer interaction, there are many other issues that are equally important. The course will present methods that help the designer to elicit user requirements and structure the design process with a focus on the users. Above all the course will emphasize the importance of paying attention to user needs, motivation and context in order to design usable systems.
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Application
For course offering
Spring 2025 Start 14 Jan 2025 programme students
Application code
60186
Content and learning outcomes
Course contents
Theoretical and practical overview of human preconditions and consequences of usage of interactive computer systems, as well as how usability design and user experience design can support the users in performing their tasks smoothly. The course will give an overview of behavioural science methods and theories as well as how they relate to use and design of interactive computer systems.
Intended learning outcomes
After passing the course, the student should be able to
- explain basic concepts in the field of HCI
- summarise the contents of research papers in the area
- carry out an inspection method, e g Heuristic Evaluation, of existing interactive computer systems
- apply general theoretical concepts on concrete interfaces
- identify advantages and disadvantages of a specific interactive computer system based on the perspectives and needs of different user groups
- argue for and against different solutions of a usability problem
in order to
- get basic knowledge of fundamental concepts in the area of human computer interaction
- get tools to identify factors that influence the communication between human and computer positively and negatively
Literature and preparations
Specific prerequisites
Recommended prerequisites
Equipment
Literature
Examination and completion
If the course is discontinued, students may request to be examined during the following two academic years.
Grading scale
Examination
- INLA - Hand-in assignments, 3.0 credits, grading scale: P, F
- TEN1 - Written exam, 1.5 credits, grading scale: A, B, C, D, E, FX, F
Based on recommendation from KTH’s coordinator for disabilities, the examiner will decide how to adapt an examination for students with documented disability.
The examiner may apply another examination format when re-examining individual students.
Opportunity to complete the requirements via supplementary examination
Opportunity to raise an approved grade via renewed examination
Examiner
Ethical approach
- All members of a group are responsible for the group's work.
- In any assessment, every student shall honestly disclose any help received and sources used.
- In an oral assessment, every student shall be able to present and answer questions about the entire assignment and solution.
Further information
Course room in Canvas
Offered by
Main field of study
Education cycle
Add-on studies
Supplementary information
In this course, the EECS code of honor applies, see:
http://www.kth.se/en/eecs/utbildning/hederskodex