Human Machine Interface

Catalog description

Human Machine Interface (HMI) is a cross-listed (graduate/undergraduate) course designed to introduce the principles and methods of human-computer interaction (HCI), usability engineering, and interface design. The course also addresses emerging challenges in Human-Machine Interaction such as AI-driven systems, extended reality (XR), and automation. It aims to equip students with knowledge of the foundations of HCI and HMI theories, their practical applications in industry, and the design of interactive platforms across domains such as healthcare. The course provides theoretical foundations in cognition, perception, and user-centered design, and applies these concepts through a semester-long project. Specifically, students will explore methodologies for interface design, prototyping, and usability testing in contexts such as healthcare, industrial systems, consumer products, and education. The course emphasizes the challenges of designing interfaces for performance, safety, and user satisfaction. Strong emphasis is placed on connecting theory to practice through semester projects in which students complete the full research cycle - from understanding problems, designing solutions, to evaluating systems. Students are encouraged to combine qualitative and quantitative methods to gain in-depth insights and apply findings to improve interface and system design. Prerequisites: None. Offered Spring and Fall as needed.