Module Description: (Extract from course document)

Rationale
The course develops skills in the area of interactive design and media.

Aims
To develop basic grounding in the use of interactive media applications together with knowledge and expertise which contribute to the design process using human computer interactive guidelines.

Content:

Interaction Design
The student is introduced to the design of information and systems, typically combining computing and telecommunications, to allow a relatively inexpert user to interact efficiently and pleasurably with technology.
Information Architecture
This subject explores how to create structures for systems. The student is introduced to practical examples, illustrating concepts, tools and deliverables that can be used for designing systems.

Prototyping
The student will simulate various kinds of interface elements and interactions using paper prototypes. The student will learn about the practical aspects of prototyping, such as deciding when the technique is appropriate, scheduling the activities needed.

Learning and Teaching Methods
Four hours per week are used for lectures and tutorials and presentations. Coursework takes a variety of forms including written work and prototype systems. The module will use a series of cases studies related to each part of the course to develop understanding of the subject material. Lectures will introduce ideas and techniques and theoretical knowledge of Interactive design and HCI issues. Seminars will introduce techniques used to produce interactivity of different media and production techniques provide the student with the opportunity to identify potential problems and explore appropriate solutions. Tutorials will enable the students to monitor their progress in relation to themselves and their peers and seek ongoing tutelage on an individual and group basis. Practicals will develop the craft skills that employ them. All group work and individual work is used to develop management, Interactive design and implementation skills. Critiques will provide a group forum for qualitative feedback on the learning outcomes from both academic staff and the student peer group on draft design work. This will offer students the opportunity to explain the rationale behind their work.