Instructor:
Dr Ben Shneiderman
ben@cs.umd.edu

Overview:
This course is for graduate students interested in research methods and human-computer interaction for mobile devices. We will focus on empirical research methods (observation, usability testing, controlled experimentation, surveys, event logging) and apply them to designing portable mobile devices that support ubiquitous pervasive experiences: tablet, palmtop, fingertip, in-car, and embedded devices. We will emphasize universal usability designs that expand audiences, accommodate a wide range of technology, and support diverse users.

Prerequisites:
CMSC 434 or equivalent, or permission of instructor. Programming skill is expected with tools such as Visual Basic. Experience in conducting usability and/or controlled experiments are expected.

Projects:
Students will read, present and discuss research methods and advanced interface design concepts based on research papers. Students will build a web site on research methods in HCI. They will develop and carry out their own design, implementation and empirical research project in teams of 3-5 students. The projects will be posted on the web.

Term Projects:
Controlled experiment with human subjects on a design issue (teams of 2 - 4 people). See previous projects at http://www.otal.umd.edu/SHORE97 SHORE98 SHORE99 SHORE2000 SHORE2001

Research Methods:
Students will build a web site on research methods in HCI

Required Textbook:
Bergman, Eric (Editor), Information Appliances and Beyond, Paperback - 384 pages 1st edition (February 2000), Morgan Kaufmann Publishers; ISBN: 1558606009

Final Grade:
Exams: 20+20%
Homework+Web+class participation: 25%
Term Project: 35%.