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HCDD 331Foundations of Human-Centered Design

3 credits · Human-​Centered Design and Development · Penn State

Interdisciplinary survey of topics and methods related to the human-centered design use and usability of information systems. HCDD 331 Foundations of Human-Centered Design: User and System Principles (3) This course provides a focused introduction to one of the most complicated parts of information systems design: users and the contexts in which they live, work, and play. The course provides a balance between theory and practice, which are tightly intertwined in this area. Students will learn how to use social science theories about human capabilities and group behavior to predict whether an information system will be usable and useful, and they will learn about the opportunities and challenges that are associated with a wide range of emerging technologies. Students will also gain skills in designing and evaluating information systems that meet the needs of a target audience. Because the information technology design space evolves rapidly, much of the technology-related content covered in this course will evolve from year to year; however the focus throughout will be understanding and responding to the needs, capabilities and preferences of the users of interactive information systems. The format of the class may include lectures, readings, in-class or online discussions, projects, or case studies. Assessment of student performance may include short assignments, quizzes, exams, or in-depth projects.

Before you enroll

Prerequisites

From the catalog: “C or better in IST 240 or IST 242 or CMPSC 122 or CMPSC 132”

Where it fits

Where it sits in degree plans

Suggested plans most often put it in Year 3 · Fall (4 programs).

Required in (2)

  • Information Sciences and Technology, B.S. (Capital)
  • Information Sciences and Technology, B.S. (Information Sciences and Technology)

One of the options in (2)

  • Enterprise Technology Integration, B.S. (Capital)
  • Enterprise Technology Integration, B.S. (Information Sciences and Technology)
What it opens up

Courses that list HCDD 331 as a prerequisite (3)

  • HCDD 340 Human-Centered Design for Mobile Computing
  • HCDD 413 Usability Engineering
  • HCDD 446 An Introduction to Building Computer/Video Games