We will explore interaction design with an emphasis on the creative use of system rules by designing user experiences that challenge the relationships between the designer-architect, the audience and the experiences they share.

Our study will span a range of issues related to the construction of interactive experience including intent, multisensory experience, sound as input and output, unconventional interface, the role of system logic, the role of participants, linear and non-lineal narrative, and guided v. self-directed experience design. Students will be challenged to redefine the concept of interface by exploring structural (i.e. design of system and logic) and experiential approaches to their work.

This course will support ongoing thesis investigations and thesis project work. Students are encouraged to define and develop projects that advance these developing studies in ways that directly and indirectly contribute to the body of work that will be defended.

Course content will be delivered in the form of two major projects. Students will develop concepts, produce content, design user interfaces and develop UI prototypes. Final prototypes will be delivered as interactive demo (i.e. Flash, Processing) or interface simulation (QT movie).

Instruction will include individual and class critiques and discussions, lectures, demonstrations, workshops, viewings, listening and reading.

Students are expected to demonstrate systematic, week-to-week progress, as specified in syllabus. Class attendance is mandatory with three absences resulting in no credit. Being late or leaving early twice will count as absence.