CS1HW22-HCI and Web Applications

Module Provider: Computer Science
Number of credits: 20 [10 ECTS credits]
Level:4
Terms in which taught: Autumn / Spring term module
Pre-requisites:
Non-modular pre-requisites:
Co-requisites:
Modules excluded:
Current from: 2023/4

Module Convenor: Dr Luis Patino
Email: j.l.patinovilchis@reading.ac.uk

Type of module:

Summary module description:

This module introduces both the theory and practice of Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) between computers and humans, in particular adopting experience of interactive design for web- based architectures and systems, and using HCI heuristic principles for evaluating user interface in terms of information visualisation. The HCI methodology can be used to guide a development process for web-based applications that enhances useability of the web application.  

Aims:

The aim of this module is to develop a sound understanding of HCI principles and apply these in a methodological process of design, development and evaluation of web-based applications for achieving qualities of fit-for-purpose, usable and accessible. This module also enables students to learn scripting language, i.e. JavaScript, to develop “look-and-feel” web application interface (front-end) to facilitate human and computer interactions through which generates and produces input and output of the web-based application.   

This module also encourages students to develop a set of professional skills, such as problem solving, creativity, technical report writing, organization and time management, self-reflection, team working, software design and development; end-user awareness, action planning and decision making, commercial awareness, critical analysis of published literature and value of diversity.

Assessable learning outcomes:

A student completing the module should be able to

• understand the theory, principles, and methodology of Human-Computer Interaction (HCI)


• apply the range of HCI methods and techniques in design, development, and evaluation of web-based applications


• represent look-and-feel in given real-world context and ensure its useability in the web-based application


• evaluate critically the developed wen-based application against user experience and expectation


• implement a look-and feel with HTML, CSS, and JavaScript for a front-end of web-based applications

Additional outcomes:

Outline content:

• HCI theory and methodology


• psychology/physiology of the human perception and behaviour interacting with computing devices


• Articulate user requirements for web-based applications


• Construct conceptual and physical design leading to implementation for look-and-feel of a web application front-end


• Adopt HTML, CSS, and JavaScript in implementation of a web application


• Apply HCI evaluation techniques (including heuristic evaluation, expert evaluation and user testing) to measuring usability and accessibility as well as professional and ethical issues towards a resultant web application


• Trends of HCI and web development in the modern computing era

Brief description of teaching and learning methods:

The learning materials will be delivered through lectures and practised through Lab sessions which are possibly provided in a blended mode. There is one piece of coursework which consists of a set of problem-solving exercises.

Contact hours:

	Autumn	Spring	Summer
Lectures	10	10
Practicals classes and workshops	10	10
Guided independent study:
Wider reading (independent)	5	10
Wider reading (directed)	10	5
Peer assisted learning	10	10
Advance preparation for classes	5	5
Preparation for performance	10	10
Completion of formative assessment tasks	10	10
Group study tasks	20	20
Reflection	10	10
Total hours by term	100	100	0
Total hours for module	200

Summative Assessment Methods:

Method	Percentage
Written exam	30
Set exercise	70

Summative assessment- Examinations:

One 2-hour examination paper in May/June.

Summative assessment- Coursework and in-class tests:

Coursework is organised in the form of both individual and group assignment through a set of problem-solving exercise in the Autumn and Spring term. 

Formative assessment methods:

Students will be provided with feedback towards learning during practical classes.

Penalties for late submission:

The Support Centres will apply the following penalties for work submitted late:

• where the piece of work is submitted after the original deadline (or any formally agreed extension to the deadline): 10% of the total marks available for that piece of work will be deducted from the mark for each working day (or part thereof) following the deadline up to a total of five working days;
• where the piece of work is submitted more than five working days after the original deadline (or any formally agreed extension to the deadline): a mark of zero will be recorded.

The University policy statement on penalties for late submission can be found at: https://www.reading.ac.uk/cqsd/-/media/project/functions/cqsd/documents/cqsd-old-site-documents/penaltiesforlatesubmission.pdf
You are strongly advised to ensure that coursework is submitted by the relevant deadline. You should note that it is advisable to submit work in an unfinished state rather than to fail to submit any work.

Assessment requirements for a pass:

A mark of 40% overall.

Reassessment arrangements:

One 3-hour examination paper in August/September. Note that the resit module mark will be the higher of (a) the mark from this resit exam and (b) an average of this resit exam mark and previous coursework marks, weighted as per the first attempt (30% exam, 70% coursework).

Additional Costs (specified where applicable):

1) Required text books: 

2) Specialist equipment or materials: 

3) Specialist clothing, footwear or headgear: 

4) Printing and binding: 

5) Computers and devices with a particular specification: 

6) Travel, accommodation and subsistence: 

Last updated: 18 September 2023