CS 601R Topics in Usability Research

This graduate course explores topics in usability research, including ethics, research methods, quantitative and qualitative data analysis, and current research in a usability-related computer science field. This semester we will use readings from usable security.

2112 JKB Tu/Th 1:35-2:50

Prerequisites: CS graduate student or instructor consent

• Understand available quantitative and qualitative methods suitable for usability research and select an appropriate method for a given problem
• Use and apply valid statistical methods in usability research
• Evaluate and review research papers in the area of usable security
• Improve critical analysis skills
• Improve technical writing skills
• Improve verbal presentation skills
• Gain experience identifying a research topic

Dr. Kent Seamons
Office: 2230 TMCB
Phone: 801-422-3722
Email: seamons –AT– cs dot byu dot edu
Office hours: by appointment

Dr. Daniel Zappala
Office: 2228 TMCB
Phone: 801-422-2195
Email: zappala -AT- cs dot byu dot edu
Office hours: by appointment

• Regular writing assignments
  • 1 page, 11 pt font, 8×11 paper, pdf format (300-400 words)
  • Submit online using Learning Suite for Dr. Seamons to review
  • Suggestion: solicit one external review before submitting an assignment
• Regular reviews of other student’s writing assignments
  • Constructive feedback on both content and presentation
  • Recommended reading: Elements of Style
• Class presentations
  • Each research paper we read will have a primary presenter
  • Spend 15 to 20 minutes to summarize key points of the paper
  • Prepare slides (10+), Concise, Clear, Graphics
  • Present your own critique of the paper
  • Presenter will upload slides instead of a peer review
• Lab exercises
  • Practice research methods, such as a survey, cognitive walkthrough, lab user study, and/or interview
  • Practice analyzing quantitative and qualitative data

• Length - 300-400 words
• Format - PDF
• What is the key contribution of the paper. Summarize the main points (1 paragraph)
• Discuss strengths (1 paragraph)
• Discuss weaknesses (1-2 paragraphs)
  • This should be your primary focus
• What questions do you have about the paper?
• What recommendations do you have to improve the paper or build on the results
• If you run short of things to talk about, focus on summarizing the paper concisely

• Students are expected to assume primary responsibility for learning
  • Unstructured and self-directed
• Time commitment: 9 hour/week average (including class time)

• Grades will be based on the following (tentative) distribution:
  • 15% Final Exam
  • 81% Homework
  • 4% Class participation (discussion, peer review)