Class description
As computers are
slowly becoming more and more pervasive in our everyday life, the design
of the "tangible" interface (such the shape of the device, the location
and type of the input systems) is becoming as important as the design of
the "graphical" interface on the screen. To understand this phenomenon,
this class will study the interplay between hardware and software in the
design of new interaction techniques. Through case studies, we will
investigate how novel devices could improve everyday interactions or help
new class of users access computer resources. Examples include:
- Documents navigation,
- Text input for small devices (PDA, phones,...)
- Better access for the visually impaired,
- Better access for the elderly,
- Better access for children
Class format
This class will
focus on conducting a research project. Each student (or small group of
students) will conduct an independent study designing, building, and
evaluating a new input device. Students in the class will have access to a
rapid prototyping printer recently acquired by the department (Z
corp Zprinter 310).
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