Subject Area
An increasing number of people use computers and perform increasingly complex tasks using computers. Computers are no longer handled only by computer specialists. The new user categories demand that programs are not only powerful tools but also easy to use. A new research field has evolved dealing with the design of computer supported tools aiming at making them not only agreeable to work with but also making use of and, if possible, enhancing the knowledge and capacity of the user. The area is interdisciplinary with strong links to e.g. psychology, linguistics, graphical design, industrial design, and work science.
Research in human-computer interaction began at Nada in the mid-eighties. About twenty researchers are presently engaged at IPLab (Interaction and Presentation Laboratory). Current research topics are: computer support for the writing process, computer support for document handling, design of environments for computer supported cooperative work, and object oriented tools for creating distributed multi-media systems.
In recent years it has been realized that computer systems that consider human performance and take advantage of human capacities not only lead to better comfort at work but also to cost effectiveness. In industry there is a demand for individuals with knowledge in human-computer interaction.
Core elements in the courses are:
- knowledge of the human ability to perform communicative and cognitive processes,
- theory and methods for considering human needs and taking advantage of human capacities when designing computer systems,
- theory, techniques, and methods for designing user oriented applications.
Goal
The goal of the specialization is to supply a broad view on the use of information technology, including knowledge about how humans think and communicate when using computers, and deeper knowledge about theories, techniques, and methods for the design and construction of advanced interactive program systems where human needs and capacities are regarded.
Prerequisites
Mandatory courses for the program. Students from programs other than D must also have taken 2D1323 Computer Graphics and Interaction and a course on object oriented programming. Some courses have further prerequisites.
Number of students
A maximum of 30 KTH-students will be admitted to the course 2D1410 User Centered Program Development. If some students on the profile can not be admitted to that course, they can take either of 2D1413 Advanced Graphics and Interaction or 2D1416 Computer Support for Cooperative Work instead.
Courses
- Mandatory core courses (18 credits) All three must be taken.
- 2D1410 User Centered Program Development, 6 cr.
- 2D1965 Human-Computer Interaction, 4 cr.
- 2I1130 Cognitive Psychology, 4 cr. (preferrably during the third year)
- 2D1953 Graphics and Interaction programming, 4 cr. for D students and
- 2D1323 Graphics and Interaction programming, 4 cr. for other students
- Broadening courses Courses are listed in numerical order. At least one must be taken.
- 2I1150 Theory of Knowledge and Philosophy of Science, 4 cr.
- 4J1075 Technical Work Psychology, 4 cr.
- 4K1401 History of Technology, A General Survey, 4 cr. (preferrably during the third year)
- Specialization courses Courses are listed in numerical order. At least one must be taken.
- 2D1378 Text and Image Processing, 4 cr.
- 2D1381 Industrial Applications of Artificial Intelligence, 4 cr.
- 2D1413 Advanced Graphics and Interaction, 6 cr.
- 2D1416 Computer Support for Cooperative Work, 6 cr.
- 2D1418 Language Engineering, 4 cr.
- D1420 Computer Vision, basic course, 5 cr.
- 2F1111 Speech Technology, 4 cr.
- 4K1516 Audio, Video, and Multimedia Technology, 6 cr.
