Midterm Assignment Instructions
This exam assignment consists of a detailed analysis of “best” and “worst” practices in
library use of interaction design principles related to services and functions that engage
user interaction with computer technology. Please remember that HCI occurs in physical
as well as in virtual spaces. You will select “best” and “worst” uses of interaction design
principles from libraries in the real world. The end goal of this assignment is to create a
composite profile of what is being done well (best practices) and what is being done
poorly (worst practices). Make sure to draw upon the textbook chapters we have read that
discuss ideal HCI practices, as well as the general approaches to understanding
interaction design—the social interaction and emotional frameworks that have been
discussed in class.
The deliverable should be an 8-10 page summary of best and worst practices, drawn from
real world practices. Include screenshots as appropriate. This is a composite profile,
which means that you will take the “best” and “worst” elements from a variety of real
world libraries. You will not find any single library that embodies all of these practices.
You may include examples from all types of libraries; you should think in terms of
library functions and services rather than strictly in terms of library types.
It is suggested that you begin by selecting six libraries that have been given positive
attention in the professional media, such as Library Journal. Examine these praiseworthy libraries in order to answer:
In what ways and forms does user interaction with computers take place?
What principles of interaction design are evident in the planning of this library?
How are communication processes facilitated or not?
In what ways has user emotion, especially frustration, been taken into account?
Comment specifically on what interface forms and functionalities seem to work well and
for what functions. Next, critically examine what you believe does not work well.
Explain your decision to label these as “best” and “worst” practices, based on the six
libraries you have selected.
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