Foundations of Human Computer Interaction and User Experience, 15 Credits

Contents

Module 1. Understanding Human Computer Interaction, 7,5 credits.
The module focuses on how humans interact with and through digital technology. The exploration takes on a broad perspective, targeting fundamental issues within the field of Human Computer Interaction (HCI), especially those related to User Experience Design (UXD), such as the role digital technology plays for individuals as well as for society and how it can be designed to meet different needs. The module further delves into the notions of cognition, users, emotions, and experiences, all fundamental aspects for understanding and designing for human computer interactions.

Module 2. Design Thinking and Creativity, 7,5 credits.
The module focuses on the creation of innovative interaction designs. It introduces current conceptual approaches in design, such as critical making, design practice, and design space, as well as techniques for supporting creativity in design processes. The module makes use of user-centered design, to cater for positive user experiences through innovative designs. The structure is based upon a design thinking process and covers aspects such as empathizing, problem definition, ideation, concept creation and prototyping.

Expected learning outcomes

Module 1. Understanding Human Computer Interaction, 7,5 credits.

Regarding knowledge and understanding the student is, after the course, expected to be able to:
1. Describe the main issues and challenges addressed in HCI research and practice.
2. Describe fundamental issues within HCI with regard to User Experience Design (UXD).

Regarding proficiency and aptitude, the student is, after the course, expected to be able to:
3. Independently search relevant literature for the subject area.
4. Apply theories, concepts and models from the field of HCI and User Experience Design.

Regarding evaluative capacity and approach the student is, after the course, expected to be able to:
5. Evaluate and select theories, concepts and models from the field of HCI and relative to a problem description.
6. Assess and discuss the role digital technology plays for individuals as well as for society.

Module 2. Design Thinking and Creativity, 7,5 credits.

Regarding knowledge and understanding the student is, after the course, expected to be able to:
1. Describe and discuss key phases and characteristics of a design process.
2. Identify and discuss appropriate methods and approaches within each phase of a design process.

Regarding proficiency and aptitude, the student is after the course, expected to be able to:
3. Plan, implement, and present a qualified design project based upon appropriate methods and approaches within each phase of a design process.

Regarding evaluative capacity and approach the student is, after the course, expected to be able to:
4. Critically evaluate, assess and discuss their own, and others, selected approaches, insights, and conclusions regarding design thinking and creativity.
5. Assess and discuss how the selected methods and approaches relate to the academic research front.

Required Knowledge

Admission to the course requires 90 credits in Informatics, Computer science, Information Systems, Cognitive science, or equivalent studies. Also required is English B/6

Form of instruction

Teaching is normally done in the form of lectures, seminars, group exercises and supervision in connection with self-studies. During the course necessary computer applications, which students shall use on their own, are introduced and maintained. Some assistance is given in the use of these applications. Some course segments may be compulsory. Teaching is normally done in English. Good ability in written presentation and English is important in order to be able to complete the course.

Examination modes

Module 1. Understanding Human Computer Interaction, 7,5 credits.
Examination modes for this module: Examination is done in the form of individual assignments, a group assignment, and seminars. Final grades are pass with distinction, pass or fail. 

Module 2. Design Thinking and Creativity, 7,5 credits.
Examination modes for this module: Examination is done in the form of individual assignments, a group assignment, and seminars. Final grades are pass with distinction, pass or fail. 

Examination modes are stated for each module. For students who fail the first exam a second exam is normally given soon afterwards. Students who do not pass the exam after these two attempts have the possibility to take the exam during subsequent re-exam periods.

A student who has failed twice on a course, or part of a course, is entitled to ask for another examiner, unless there are special reasons against it. Requests for new examiners are made to the Director of studies.

If special reasons exist, the examiner has the right to decide on another examination form.

Grades on the course as a whole are awarded when the student has passed all examinations and compulsory course elements. In connection with the description of the content and form of the examination, it is stated what is necessary for the grade Pass (G) or Pass with distinction (VG). To receive the grade Pass with distinction (VG) in the 15-credit course consisting of two modules of the same size, the student must have achieved Pass with distinction (VG) in both modules. To receive the grade Pass (G) for the course as a whole, the student must have achieved at least the grade Pass (G) in both modules.