| Unit name | Interaction and Society |
|---|---|
| Unit code | COMS20009 |
| Credit points | 20 |
| Level of study | I/5 |
| Teaching block(s) |
Teaching Block 2 (weeks 13 - 24) |
| Unit director | Dr. Oussama Metatla |
| Open unit status | Not open |
| Pre-requisites |
COMS10013 Mathematics for Computer Science B. OR students must have knowledge of how to conduct an experiment and compare data using statistical tests (at a similar level to that taught in Mathematics for Computer Science B). |
| Co-requisites |
None |
| School/department | School of Computer Science |
| Faculty | Faculty of Engineering |
This unit is concerned with interactions and impacts of computing technologies at the individual, group and societal scales. It combines core concepts in Interaction Design with discussion of the position of the discipline of Computer Science in society.
The first half of this unit introduces and gives concrete experience of interaction design methods. Interaction design is key in the development of successful interactive software and hardware. This unit considers a range of topics in the field from user interface design to evaluation methods. We will address all aspects of the interaction design lifecycle from requirements gathering, through sketching and prototyping interface designs, to evaluation.
The second half of this unit focuses on computer scientists in society. We will consider both how individuals, groups, societies, and environments are impacted by digital technologies, and on the role and responsibilities of computer scientists. We will introduce approaches to consider impacts, drawing on theories of ethics, values, responsible innovation, and social computing.
Successful completion of this unit will enable a student to:
Teaching will be delivered through a combination of synchronous and asynchronous sessions, including lectures, practical activities supported by drop-in sessions, group work and self-directed exercises.
100% Coursework
If this unit has a Resource List, you will normally find a link to it in the Blackboard area for the unit. Sometimes there will be a separate link for each weekly topic.
If you are unable to access a list through Blackboard, you can also find it via the Resource Lists homepage. Search for the list by the unit name or code (e.g. COMS20009).
How much time the unit requires
Each credit equates to 10 hours of total student input. For example a 20 credit unit will take you 200 hours
of study to complete. Your total learning time is made up of contact time, directed learning tasks,
independent learning and assessment activity.
See the Faculty workload statement relating to this unit for more information.
Assessment
The Board of Examiners will consider all cases where students have failed or not completed the assessments required for credit.
The Board considers each student's outcomes across all the units which contribute to each year's programme of study. If you have self-certificated your absence from an
assessment, you will normally be required to complete it the next time it runs (this is usually in the next assessment period).
The Board of Examiners will take into account any extenuating circumstances and operates
within the Regulations and Code of Practice for Taught Programmes.
