Unit 2: Cognitive Aspects Mental Models Problem Solving

In order to design something for someone, we need to understand the capabilities and limitations of that person. This unit covers how humans perceive the world around them, how they store and process info and solve problems, and how they physically manipulate objects. It will highlight how different individuals perceive different objects and how you, the designer can incorporate features in your design that respond to these differences. 

Unit learning outcomes:

At the end of this unit, you will be able to:

          1. Understand Human behavior on adapting computer systems in their daily lives.

          2. Explore how humans manipulate physical objects around them.

          3. Understand features of computer systems that respond to human differences. 

Learning activities:

You will need to do the following activities:

          E-tivity 1.1 Online assessments on understanding human behaviors.

          E-tivity 1.2 On describing the Techniques for getting human attention. 

          E-tivity 1.3 Online/in-class assessment through the files that students will submit.

Learning resources:

[1]. Alan Dix, Janet Finlay, Gregory Abowd & Russell Beale (2004).

[2]. Human-Computer Interaction. Hillsdale, NJ: Prentice Hall, 2004. ISBN 0-13-458266-7 (hardback); 0-13-437211-5 (paperback) only outside USA. 1998 (Second Edition) ISBN 0-13-239864-8. Chap. 1