Case studies for teaching usability engineering

  • Authors:
  • Mary Beth Rosson;John M. Carroll;Con M. Rodi

  • Affiliations:
  • Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA;Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA;Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA

  • Venue:
  • Proceedings of the 35th SIGCSE technical symposium on Computer science education
  • Year:
  • 2004

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Abstract

A challenge in teaching usability engineering is providing appropriate hands-on project experience. Students need projects that are realistic enough to address meaningful issues, but manageable within one semester. We describe our use of online case studies to motivate and model course projects in usability engineering. The cases illustrate scenario-based usability methods, and are accessed via a custom browser. We summarize the content and organization of the case studies, several case-based learning activities, and students' reactions to the activities. We conclude with a discussion of future directions for case studies in HCI education.