Module Details

Module Code: MMED6007
Title: User Interface Design
Long Title: User Interface Design
NFQ Level: Fundamental
Valid From: Semester 1 - 2017/18 ( September 2017 )
Duration: 1 Semester
Credits: 5
Field of Study: 2130 - Multimedia
Module Delivered in: 1 programme(s)
Module Description: The module introduces the learner to the principles of interactivity and interface design. It addresses
the process as one encompassing the design of structures and acting processes as well as the design
of audiovisual signs. By so doing it aims to provide the learner with the conceptual and practical skills
and competencies required to design and develop effective human-computer interactions for a range of
applications.
 
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this module the learner will be able to:
# Learning Outcome Description
LO1 Analyse design issues and best practice in existing interactive products especially with regard to interface design.
LO2 List the fundamental principles of human-computer interaction and user experience.
LO3 Describe the creative and scientific issues involved in the development of effective interface design.
LO4 Design an interface through the application of best principles in the field of UI design.
Dependencies
Module Recommendations

This is prior learning (or a practical skill) that is strongly recommended before enrolment in this module. You may enrol in this module if you have not acquired the recommended learning but you will have considerable difficulty in passing (i.e. achieving the learning outcomes of) the module. While the prior learning is expressed as named MTU module(s) it also allows for learning (in another module or modules) which is equivalent to the learning specified in the named module(s).
Incompatible Modules
These are modules which have learning outcomes that are too similar to the learning outcomes of this module. You may not earn additional credit for the same learning and therefore you may not enrol in this module if you have successfully completed any modules in the incompatible list.
No incompatible modules listed
Co-requisite Modules
No Co-requisite modules listed
Requirements

This is prior learning (or a practical skill) that is mandatory before enrolment in this module is allowed. You may not enrol on this module if you have not acquired the learning specified in this section.
No requirements listed
 
Indicative Content
Historical Context
A history and appraisal of interface design from classical interactive media to media systems.
Human Centred Design
The definition of the interface as an action area of the user. Principles/heuristics of interface design. Examination of mental vs conceptual models. Man-machine-relationship. Intuitive acting and orientation.
UI Theory
Elements of interface design: usability, visualisation, functionality, and accessibility. Sociological and psychological issues in interaction design. Functions of language in design.
Practical
Exploring the terms "Orientation", "Interaction", and "Relationship". Orientation: students analyse learned orientation strategies and prove their practicability for interfaces. They develop different navigation models and analyse their suitability for different situations of use and target groups.
Module Content & Assessment
Assessment Breakdown%
Coursework100.00%

Assessments

Coursework
Assessment Type Written Report % of Total Mark 30
Timing Week 6 Learning Outcomes 1,2,3
Assessment Description
Present Interface Design Principles
Assessment Type Project % of Total Mark 70
Timing Week 13 Learning Outcomes 1,4
Assessment Description
Interface Design Project
No End of Module Formal Examination
Reassessment Requirement
Coursework Only
This module is reassessed solely on the basis of re-submitted coursework. There is no repeat written examination.

The University reserves the right to alter the nature and timings of assessment

 

Module Workload

Workload: Full Time
Workload Type Contact Type Workload Description Frequency Average Weekly Learner Workload Hours
Lab Contact Lab will incorporate lectures on theory, history, HCI, HCD and design elements. There will also be opportunities for the students to receive tutoring and individual support on projects. Every Week 3.00 3
Independent & Directed Learning (Non-contact) Non Contact Study of theory examined in class and development of project work. Every Week 4.00 4
Total Hours 7.00
Total Weekly Learner Workload 7.00
Total Weekly Contact Hours 3.00
This module has no Part Time workload.
 
Module Resources
Recommended Book Resources
  • Donald A. Norman. (2014), The Design of Everyday Things, [ISBN: 9780262525671].
  • Carolyn Knight & Jessica Glaser. (2005), The graphic designer's guide to effective visual communication, RotoVision, Hove, [ISBN: 2880468108].
  • Richard Howells. Visual Culture, [ISBN: 978-074565071].
Supplementary Book Resources
  • A. Pirhonen... [et al.], eds. (2005), Future interaction design, Springer, London, [ISBN: 1852337915].
  • Jesse James Garrett. (2003), The Elements of user experience, New Riders, Indianapolis, Ind., [ISBN: 0735712026].
  • David Dabner. (2004), Graphic design school, Thames & Hudson, London, [ISBN: 0500285268].
  • Elizabeth Resnick. (2003), Design for communication, Wiley, Hoboken, N.J., [ISBN: 0471418293].
This module does not have any article/paper resources
Other Resources
  • Website: Computer Arts site, www.computerarts.co.uk.
  • Website: Usability Site, www.useit.com.
 
Module Delivered in
Programme Code Programme Semester Delivery
CR_HMMED_8 Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Creative Digital Media 4 Elective