Fundamental to the design process of developing a successful human-computer interface is an understanding of the rules and languages of communication between people and also between people and the enviornment. A realisation of social, physical and cultural constraints and differences will enable a broader conceptual overview of the relationship between the virtual world and the human user. These will be viewed in the light of recent core legislation dealing with accessibility and broader issues of access.

This unit will explore these issues through a series of practical tasks and activities and will culminate in a project that translates the findings from the real to the virtual. The examination of cause and effect will require you to consider reception, interpretation and representation of information.

In addition to you comprehending the complexities of language and the computer interface, you will be introduced to the issues of copyright and how they relate to a design practitioner.

• Surface design (graphic representation of data and information as perceived by the viewer);
• System design and information theory, including cause and effect;
• Structural design;
• Technical design;
• Human factors (human end of the process, cross-cultural design, linguistics, access issues, cognitive psychology, disability etc);
• Core legislation and issues relating to accessibility;
• Communication theory and practice;
• Lecture on copyright issues.

Assessment Requirement

A portfolio of evidence, defined by the project briefs you will be given during the course of this unit, you must include unit workbook and final design solutions for each brief.

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