Course Purpose: User interface design, the computer-science-focused view of human-computer interaction (HCI), is a multidisciplinary study of the design, evaluation, and implementation of interactive computing systems for human use and the major phenomena surrounding them. This course provides a broad overview of the field with an emphasis on interface development and evaluation. The course includes a laboratory component.

Grading Policy: Exams comprise 40% of your grade, and homework the other 60%. Percentages for each component are given in parentheses below. Individual components are assigned scores from 0 to 100. Letter grades are determined only at the end of the course, based on the final weighted average. The normal scale is 90-80-70-60, which may be lowered to reflect a curve but will not be raised.

Examinations: There will be two exams in all, a midterm (15%) and a comprehensive final (25%). The final exam is scheduled for 3:30 p.m. Wednesday, December 16, 1998. The course syllabus includes an approximate exam schedule.

Homework: Expect several types of assignments: in-class written exercises (5%), written assignments including a term paper and presentation (25%), and programming projects (30%). Assignments not submitted by the due time are subject to a 10% per day late penalty assessed from that time. A contiguous weekend/holiday period counts as one day. Some assignments will require individual solution and others will require team solution.

Attendance: It is to your advantage to attend class and your responsibility to obtain information presented in your absence. If you miss an exam, you will receive a zero for it unless prior arrangements have been made.

Other Policies: The University has published policies concerning plagiarism, cheating and responsible use of computer resources. See "Student Rights and Responsibilities" in the Undergraduate Catalog or check the World Wide Web. Violation of these may result in a failing grade for the course. Blatant copying of individual assignments will result in shared credit among the persons involved for a first offense, and zero credit thereafter.

Disabled or Differently-Abled Students: Anyone who has special requirements should meet with the course instructor as soon as possible. The University has many resources available, e.g., the Learning Diagnostic Center and the Writing Center, to assist students with their learning experiences.

Southwest Missouri State University is an affirmative action, equal opportunity institution. For more information contact Dr. Melissa Manning, Affirmative Action Officer, Office of Human Resources, Southwest Missouri State University, Carrington Hall 128, Springfield, Missouri 65804, (417) 836-4252.

Last reviewed: 24 August 1998