Programme Description

This course demonstrates how to apply techniques from psychology, software engineering and cognitive science to the design, implementation and evaluation of interactive computing systems. It is suitable for those with a background in either psychology or computing. The course can be taken in one year full time, or part time over two years.

Background

Computers are an integral and indispensable part of our lives. Most people now use or depend on computer technology such as word processors, cash dispensers, process control, and computer-based airline cockpits. Moreover, the advent of computer networking and groupware is offering new possibilities for collaborative work and communication. The problem, however, is harnessing the technology to match users' needs. Most of us have experienced difficulties and frustrations when using computers. There is clearly a mismatch between the way many computer systems are designed and the way in which people want to use them. How can usable and useful systems be developed? What tools, methodologies, and theories can we use to facilitate this process? Human-computer interaction (HCI), knowledge engineering, cognitive and user modelling, computer-supported cooperative working (CSCW), and human-centred system design are rapidly growing areas of research and development, which attempt to address these issues. The aim of this MSc programme is to provide a multi-disciplinary course for graduates in psychology, computer science, and related disciplines, to develop technical and analytical skills, an understanding of human computer interaction, and human-centred approaches to software design and deployment. The degree is unique in its focus on the application of cognitive psychology to technology design, and in seeking a balance between the inter-disciplinarity of cognitive science and the detailed technical skills needed for software engineering. Students will gain a thorough knowledge of the subject area, together with direct experience of a range of methodologies for the design and evaluation of interactive computer systems.