NDAA09017U Research Methods in Human-Centered Computing

Volume 2013/2014
Education
MSc Programme in Computer Science
MSc Programme in It og Cognition
Content
The purpose of this course is to give participants knowledge about core notions and methods in empirical research in Human-Centered Computing. Participants will acquire an understanding of how research is planned, conducted and analyzed. In addition, participants will learn to critically assess results and sources of bias/error in the research of others. After the course, participants will be prepared for selecting and using research methods in their own projects (for instance, in master theses and written projects) and for reading and taking up results from research papers.

Methods for empirically investigating human use and understanding of information technology play at least two important roles in computer science. First, empirical research methods have lead to much of what we understand about use of information technology. This includes insights from the fields of Human-Centered Computing, Human-Computer Interaction, Software Engineering, and Computer-Supported Cooperative Work. Second, many text books on software engineering and information systems argue that empirical research is a crucial component in developing useful and usable information technology. 
Learning Outcome
The aim of the course is to give participants practical and theoretical insight in research methods. The practical insight is obtained through compulsory assignments on planning or analysis of empirical research. The theoretical insight is obtained through studying a book and selected papers on research methods. The main focus of the course is on experiments with a research aim. After the course participants will know about:
  • Key notions in empirical research methods such as reliability, validity, hypotheses, statistical test, experiment, randomization, bias.
  • Questions of particular relevance to Human-Centered Computing, including how usability is measured, typical validity concerns, interpretation of results, choice of research question
They will have experience with using:
  • Specific research methods such as observation, field studies, questionnaires, interviews, and experiments.
And in conducting:
  • Analysis of empirical research, for instance, descriptive and inferential statistics, qualitative data analysis.
Literature
Scientific papers and book chapters; the course material will be available on Absalon or handed out at lectures.
Understanding of human-computer interaction, for instance from a course on HCI, interaction design, or similar topics.
Classroom discussions and compulsory assignments.
  • Category
  • Hours
  • Lectures
  • 27
  • Practical exercises
  • 116
  • Preparation
  • 63
  • Total
  • 206
Credit
7,5 ECTS
Type of assessment
Continuous assessment
Seven compulsory assignments with external grading on 7-point scale. Submission in Absalon.
Marking scale
7-point grading scale
Censorship form
External censorship
Re-exam
Seven compulsory assignments with external grading on 7-point scale. The assignments will be comparable to those made during the course, but all will include new questions and discussion points.
Criteria for exam assesment
See learning outcome.