CMSC 434: HUMAN FACTORS IN COMPUTER AND INFORMATION SYSTEMS

Catalog Description

Human factors issues in the development of software, the use of database systems, and the design of interactive systems. Science base (theories, models, usability studies, and controlled experimentation), and software engineering with user interface development environments. Issues include: programming and command languages; menus, forms, and direct manipulation; graphical user interfaces, computer-supported cooperative work, information search and visualization; input/output devices; and display design.

Prerequisites

CMSC 330, PSYC 100 and STAT 400.

Topics

Introduction to design and software tools: User Interface Management
Evaluation methods
Theories: Predictive and Explanatory
Menus and forms design guidelines
Command languages
Direct manipulation
Interaction devices: keyboards, poining, voice
Response time
Messages and color design
Multiple windows
Computer-supported cooperative work
Information visualization tools
Manuals and online help
Social impact

Course Text

B. Shneiderman, Designing the User Interface: Strategies for Effective Human-Computer Interaction, Addison-Wesley, 1992.
R. Runyon and A. Haber, Fundamentals of Behavioral Statistics, McGraw-Hill, 1991.
P. Baadia and R. Runyon, Fundamentals of Behavioral Research, Addison-Wesley, 1982.

Typical Grading and Workload

40% - Exams
20% - Homework and class participation
40% - Project