Learning outcomes

To pass the course, the student should be able to:

• explain the general need of theories and methods in psychological research;
• account for the historical development of theories within cognitive psychology;
• give examples on, and report for, theories and methods from several areas in psychological research;
• explain in what way psychological research methods and results have importance for development of theories and methods within human-computer interaction;
• carry out and analyse an experimental psycological study;
• account for the interplay between psychological processes on individual -, group, organisation - and community level, and the development of useful information technological systems.

Content

Basic theories and methods in psychology mainly within different topics within cognitive psychology, such as perception, memory, thinking, problem-solving, decision and assessment processes, learning, development, organisation and group processes, social relations and ethical development. Applied perception, cognition, learning, mental models, decision theory et al areas that have importance for human-computer interaction. Experimental method as a basis for psychological science. Method development from historical perspective. Cognitive ergonomics and the importance of computer systems with high usability.

Instruction

Lectures. Laboratory sessions. Group assignments.

Assessment

Written home exam (3 credits). Assignments (2 credits).