COMM-6961 Information Architecture

Description
In this course we will examine theoretical and empirical issues in the field of Information Architecture. The field of Information Architecture aims to identify and utilize principles of information organization, collect and interpret empirical data on human information behavior, and develop and apply methods of information design all in the service of creating usable architectures of information. The aim of the course is to become familiar with the ways in which information architects conduct their work in a professional setting, and how their methods are informed by theory and empirical research. Our source material will include a wide range of materials and cover a wide range of topics as a result of the inherently interdisciplinary nature of Information Architecture. We will explore the connections between theoretical developments, empirical methods and findings, and the implementations of these in industry, government, and academia. Through discussions, students' presentations, and projects, we will also consider possibilities for applying theoretical perspectives and research findings to our own work.

Prerequisites
n/a

Textbook(s)
Ordering Information

Format
Classes: 14 weeks, 14 sessions
Presentation & Discussion, Individual: 1
Mini Projects, Group: 7
Project Presentation, Group: 1
Final Report, Group: 1

Grading
Presentation & Discussion, Individual: 10%
7 Mini Projects, Group: 35% total (5% each)
Project Presentation, Group: 15%
Final Report, Group: 30%
Participation, Individual: 10%

Computing
E-mail access is required for course communications.

Access to Blackboard, Rensselaer's course management tool, is required. Please refer to this page for instructions on how to set up your computer for Blackboard.

Who Should Enroll
This course may be used in your Plan of Study as follows:

Degree Programs
CSCI - elective
CSYS - elective with advisor pre-approval
ELEC - elective with advisor pre-approval
EPOW - elective with advisor pre-approval
HCIN - required
ITEC - elective with advisor pre-approval
MBA - elective with advisor pre-approval
MGMT-MS - elective with advisor pre-approval
MGTE - n/a
TCOM - elective

This course is also open to non-matriculated students who meet the prerequisites.