C83PDT Psychology of Digital Technology
Number of Credits
10
Module Catalogue Description
How can psychology inform the design of computer systems? In this module, theoretical and methodological approaches to designing computer systems and the role of human factors in these different approaches are considered. Attention is paid to topics such as user-centred design, teleworking, the internet and www, and metaphors in computer systems. This course takes a hands-on approach to learning about human-computer interaction.
Module Staff
Aims
To introduce current psychological issues in the design, evaluation and use of information technology in the workplace.
Objectives
This modules introduces current psychological issues in the design, evaluation and use of information technology in the workplace. To do so it covers:
-
Different theoretical approaches to cognition
-
Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) design methods
-
The various ways that the usability of technology can be assessed.
-
Interface design and especially the roles of metaphors and different forms of interaction
-
The way that new technologies (such as the Internet, Computer Supported Co-operative work, Teleworking) shape the organisations.
-
Why new technologies are not always beneficial.
List of Lectures
All course materials will be available via WebCT
Method and Frequency of Class
One two hour lecture per week
Assessment
One two hour exam (100%)