User Documentation and Interface Design
Language, Literature and Communication

Description
The objective of this course is to familiarize students with current research on computer and document usability. Wherever possible, the course seeks bridges between basic research and concrete applications. The course looks at layout and content of printed and on-line documentation and at design of interfaces for mainframe, personal computers, and other electronic devices. Students will read research articles and will scrutinize example commercial software products. Graded projects include: two examinations, each of which asks students to apply research findings to product design problems; a product critique; compilation of research findings on a topic of students’ choosing; and a small design project.

Prerequisites
Strong communication capabilities and a prior course in human communications or computer science.

Textbook(s)
Ordering Information

Format and Grading
Format and Grading information will only be current for courses being offered this semester.

Computing
Specific Computing requirements will only be current for courses being offered this semester.

Technical Requirements
Specific Technical requirements will only be current for courses being offered this semester.

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
ESCI-MM - elective
ESCI-MSE - elective
ESCI-MT - elective
ITEC - may be applied toward Software Design core or the HCI or Software Engineering and Design applications area
MBA - elective
MEAE - elective with advisor pre-approval
MGMT - elective
QUAL - elective with advisor pre-approval
SERV - elective with advisor pre-approval
TCOM - may be used as a Graphics course

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

Back to top