Research Topics in Human-Computer Interaction

Level of Study

Master

Teaching semester

Autumn

Objectives and Content

The aim of the course is to give an understanding of the current trends in HCI (Human-Computer Interaction) research. The students will gain knowledge about a range of advanced concepts and approaches related to analysis and design of interactive systems.

The course will introduce the students to a variety of modern interaction techniques, styles and paradigms, as well as main challenges for conducting interaction design activities, presented by new interactive technologies. An overview of key research on personal technologies, technology-enabled ecologies and habitats, and the "design turn" in HCI will be provided within the course. Main theoretical approaches in HCI, including activity theory, distributed cognition, and phenomenology, will be discussed and related to concrete research and development in the field.

Learning Outcomes

A student who has completed the course should have the following learning outcomes defined in terms of knowledge, skills and general competence:

Knowledge

The student

• knows main issues and challenges in current HCI research, as well as new research problems.
• understands social implications of interactive technologies.

Skills

The student

• can discuss how HCI concepts and methods can be applied in analysis, design, and evaluation of interactive technologies.
• can plan and implement exploratory projects directed at envisioning and prototyping novel interactive artefacts.
• can work in a team to produce and evaluate prototypes of novel interactive artefacts.
• can work in a team to document the production and evaluation of novel interactive artefacts.
• can present and discuss central topics in the HCI field, both orally and in writing

Required Previous Knowledge

Bachelor`s degree in Information Science or equivalent.

Recommended Previous Knowledge

INFO161/INFO261/INFO262

Access to the Course

Master's programme in Information Science or Master's programme in Media and Interaction Design.

Teaching and learning methods

Lectures, work on individual and group assignments, presentations, and discussions.

Compulsory Assignments and Attendance

• There will be mandatory assignments which must be completed and approved.
• Mandatory participation: Attendance at 80 % of course sessions is mandatory.

Written assignment reports can be submitted in either English or Norwegian.

The approved mandatory assignments cannot be carried over to other semesters.

Forms of Assessment

• Group based term paper (55%)
• Individual oral exam (45%)

Grading Scale

The grading system has a descending scale from A to E for passes and F for fail.

Assessment Semester

Assessment in teaching semester.

Course Evaluation

All courses are evaluated according to UiB's system for quality assurance of education.