Teaching Human Computer Interaction: First Experiences

Abstract

Human-computer interaction is a very recent discipline at the Universidad de Costa Rica. In
this paper we present the experiences of the first academic year the first courses about humancomputer
interaction, an undergraduate course and a Masters course, were designed and
taught. The HCI course introduction strategy consisted of two steps: 1) to initiate a dedicated
undergraduate course during the first term, and 2) to initiate a dedicated Masters course
during the second term, simultaneously taught with the undergraduate course. Both courses
share the outline. However, due to differences among undergraduate and graduate students
and among undergraduate and Masters courses, evaluation methodology differences were
implemented, resulting in more assignments and a higher exigency level for graduate
students. Work in the classroom is different for each of the courses, because graduate students
can build their own knowledge based on their previous working experience and on the
exchange of ideas with other students. In both undergraduate and Masters courses, emphasis
is set on practice supported by theory.