EC303: Human–Computer Interaction & Cognitive Ergonomics

Interfaces Are Conversations With Minds

Topics

• Mental models, affordances, signifiers
• Cognitive load theory applied to UX
• Onboarding, error handling, trust-building
• Designing for attention, perception, emotion
• Accessible, inclusive design patterns

Outcomes

• Ship interfaces that feel obvious
• Explain UX tradeoffs using cognition
• Bridge design ↔ engineering teams effortlessly

Modules

1. Humans as Systems of Attention
2. Interface Patterns & Anti-patterns
3. Information Architecture & Flow
4. Designing for AI-powered products
5. Usability Testing & Feedback Loops

Difficulty: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ | Time: 8 hours | Prereqs: EC101, EC103