Main Field of Study and progress level:
Informatics: Second cycle, has only first-cycle course/s as entry requirements
Grading scale: Pass with distinction, Pass, Fail
Responsible department: Department of Informatics
Contents
The aim of the course is to introduce the students to concepts, methods, and techniques of user research. A number of theoretical approaches to understanding users and converting that understanding to design of useful and usable IT artefacts, is presented, including cognitive science, ethnomethodology, participatory design, and activity theory. Students will acquire an understanding of the main perspectives on the use context. The main focus of the course is on practical techniques, such as user and task analysis, personas, contextual design, and the Activity Checklist.
Expected learning outcomes
After having completed the course the student will be able to:
describe, apply and critically evaluate concepts and techniques for applied user research,
independently state and solve relevant problems in the subject area using a scientific approach, and
actively and independently be able to orientate in and evaluate current research within the subject area of the course.
Required Knowledge
Prerequisites for the course are 45 credits in Informatics, Computer Science or Cognitive Science, or equivalent, including at least one course (7.5 credits) in Human-Computer Interaction, or equivalent.
English proficiency equivalent to IELTS Academic Training minimum score 5.0 with no individual score below 4.5 (Tests taken before January 2005 not admissible or TOEFL minimum score 500 on paper based test and not below 4.0 on the TWE, Alternatively 173 on computer based test with iBT61 is also required as well as basic entrance requirements for higher studies in Swedish language proficiency if the course is taught in Swedish.
Form of instruction
Teaching is conducted mainly in the form of lectures and tutorials in connection with self-instruction and when performing obligatory computer laboratory assignments or other assignments. Some parts of the course can require obligatory attendance. Teaching can be done in English. All necessary computer applications to be used by the students on their own are introduced and maintained during the course. Some assistance is provided when using these applications. Good knowledge in performing written presentations and the English language are important in order to be able to complete the course.
During the course the student will have round the clock access to several of the departments computer laboratories, except when these have been booked for other courses.
Examination modes
Examination is normally given in the form of a written exam and obligatory computer assignments or other assignments. Final grades are pass with distinction, pass or fail. 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 three more times when the exam is given. To be able to do so requires that the student be registered for the course during the term the exam is given. Additional attempts to take the exam require permission of the director of studies or the student counselor.
Transfer of Credits from Equivalent Courses
The chairperson in the committee for the Masters program in human computer interaction decides whether or not credits from equivalent courses can be transferred. A written application must be submitted stating which credits the applicant whishes to be considered for transfer. In the application proof of equivalent courses must be provided by way of certificates or otherwise stating place of study, dates, subject area, level of education, number of credits and grade. Also included must be a syllabus and literature list for the courses to be considered or where appropriate a project essay should be included.
