Instructor Class Description

Time Schedule:

• Spring Quarter 2013
• Summer Quarter 2013
• Autumn Quarter 2013

David K. Farkas
HCDE 407
Seattle Campus

Software User Assistance

Concepts, skills, and industry practices for designing the full spectrum of information resources that users need to master complex interfaces. Includes interface text, embedded and standard help, manuals, wizards, tutorials, SDK documentations and troubleshooting (Knowledge Base) content, and the role of social media and user-generated content. Prerequisite: HCDE 310. Offered: Sp.

Class description

Students learn to design and create the full spectrum of information resources users need to master complex interfaces. We focus on interface text, embedded help, help systems and manuals, video procedures, wizards, tutorials, and KB articles. The course includes the roles of user-generated content and support provided by social media. The concepts and skills taught in this course will prove valuable for technical communicators, user experience designers, and those who work in software development teams.

Student learning goals

General method of instruction

Lecture and discussion plus small-group activities. Students will a create samples of various forms of user assistance with explanations of what they have made. These materials will be an strong addition to the student's professional portfolio website.

Recommended preparation

HCDE 310 recommended. HCDE major, or permission of instructor.

Class assignments and grading

Please see course website. http://faculty.washington.edu/farkas/TC407

Please see course website. http://faculty.washington.edu/farkas/TC407

Office of the Registrar
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Modified:May 17, 2013