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252-3110-00L 8 Credits BSC , MSC D-HEST , D-MAVT , D-INFK , D-ERDW , D-PHYS , D-ITET
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Human Computer Interaction

Lecturers & Examiners: Prof. Dr. Christian Holz, Prof. Dr. April Wang
VVZ CR 3.23

Last Updated: 2026-06-01 11:31:13

Abstract

The course provides an introduction to the field of human-computer interaction and focuses on role of the user in system design. Methods used to analyze the user experience will be introduced to show how they inform the design of new interfaces, systems, and technologies. Emerging methods and tools in computational interaction and optimization for UI design will also be introduced.

Objective

The goal of the course is for students to understand the principles of user-centered design and be able to apply these in practice. Another goal is to understand the basic notions of Computational Design in a HCI context.

Content

The course will introduce students to several methods of analysing the user experience, showing how these can be used at different stages of system development from requirements analysis through to usability testing. Students will get experience of designing and carrying out user studies as well as analysing results. The course will also cover the basic principles of interaction design. Practical exercises related to touch and gesture-based interaction will be used to reinforce the concepts introduced in the lecture. To get students to further think beyond traditional system design, we will discuss issues related to ambient information and awareness.

Resources

Lecture Notes

All materials and details accessible throughhttps://siplab.ethz.ch/courses/human_computer_interaction/2025

Literature

Will be provided as part of the course

Learning Materials (Links)

General Information

Language
English
Levels
BSC , MSC
Frequency
Yearly recurring

Examination

Type
end-of-semester examination
Mode
written 120 minutes
Aids
Non-programmable calculators are allowed during the BYOD end-of-term exam.
Digital
The examination takes place on your own device. Installation of SEB required.
All participating students will take part in a mandatory project during the semester. This project will contribute to the overall grade. The grade is determined by the project (50%) and the end-of-term computer-based BYOD presence exam (50%).

Course Components

Type Title Time & Place Hours
lecture Human Computer Interaction
  • Thu 10:15-12:00 (HG E 3)
  • Fri 13:15-14:00 (CAB G 61)
  • 16.12 Date 12:15-16:00 (HG D 30.0075)
3 h weekly
exercise Human Computer Interaction
  • Tue 16:15-18:00 (CHN F 46)
  • Tue 16:15-18:00 (HG E 41)
  • Fri 14:15-16:00 (CAB G 61)
  • Fri 14:15-16:00 (HG E 41)
  • 16.09 Date 16:15-18:00 (ML F 34)
2 h weekly
independent project Human Computer Interaction No time listed 2 h weekly

Offered In