3 credits
Fall 2025 Lecture Upper Division
This course provides an overview of the role of human cognition in the use of interactive digital technologies. Students will learn fundamental theories and concepts of cognitive science that are relevant to interactive technology. The course takes a broad chronological approach, examining the history and development of cognitive theories and models in the field of human computer-interaction (HCI). Students will read seminal works from leading researchers in cognitive science and HCI. The course covers older well-established theories and models as well as newer speculative ones. Students will develop a sound understanding of the origins, development, and future directions of cognition research in HCI. Topics covered include: classical cognition; the cognitive revolution; mediated cognition; activity theory; situated action; embodied cognition; distributed, external, and extended cognition; enactive cognition; thinking and epistemic coping; make-believe and imagination; scaffolding and cognitive offloading; internal and external representations. Students are encouraged to make appropriate connections to their own research areas. No specific technical or programming experiences is required.
Learning Outcomes1Critically assess the role of cognition in the use of interactive digital technologies.
2Explain the history and development of cognition research in the field of human computer-interaction, including major theories and seminal works.
3Apply concepts from the course in their own personal research.
Restrictions
made by Purdue students.