Human Computer Interaction Design
Project Overview:
This coursework for COMP1649 focused on designing and prototyping an outdoor rock climbing app by applying Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) principles. The project included iterative design, usability testing, and the integration of gamification and cognitive psychology to enhance user engagement. A research study was also proposed to evaluate the usability of the app’s features.
Key Features:
App Design:
Developed an intuitive interface incorporating HCI principles like Norman’s execution-evaluation cycle and cognitive load theory.
Key features include a Quick Actions menu, weather forecasts, a climbing log, and social tools for sharing content.
Emphasized usability through consistent design, visible feedback, and minimized navigation complexity.
Prototype:
Created a mid-fidelity interactive prototype to simulate real-world usage and test features.
Iteratively improved design based on usability insights and feedback.
Incorporated gamification elements such as badges to motivate user interaction.
Research Study:
Proposed a mixed-method study to assess the effectiveness of the Quick Actions menu in enhancing task efficiency and user satisfaction.
Combined qualitative and quantitative data collection methods, including surveys, interviews, and task completion analysis.
Learning Outcomes:
Gained practical experience in applying HCI theories to app design.
Improved skills in iterative prototyping, usability testing, and user-centered design.
Developed critical thinking on balancing functionality and user engagement.
Conclusion:
This project demonstrated the effective application of HCI principles in mobile app development, focusing on usability and user engagement. It highlights areas for future enhancement, including advanced features and broader usability testing, while showcasing the potential of HCI to create impactful and user-friendly applications.