ACADEMIC COURSES

The Human Computer Interaction course offers the opportunity to delve deep into the core principles of HCI and cognitive ergonomics. The course covers different topics: user-centered design; cognitive ergonomics principles; user experience evaluation and usability; visual communication and data visualization; accessibility and universal design (including design for older adults), and Social computing and ergonomics. Students will learn to design with users in mind, ensuring that the digital experiences are not only visually appealing but also cognitively efficient. A target will be mastering the assessment of user experiences and usability, creating interactions that are simple, pleasant, engaging, and highly satisfying. The course will make students understand the relevance of designing and developing technology for physical and digital spaces that is inclusive and user-friendly for people of all ages, regardless of their individual characteristics.

Fundamentals of Cyberpsychology is an academic course that offers a comprehensive understanding of the intersection of modern technology and psychology with an emphasis on online phenomena, gaming, virtual environments, and the repercussions of pervasive technology. In detail, the course explores the online world, including the internet and social networks, discussing their transformative effects on individuals, digital identity, psychological consequences of online activities, and dynamics of influence in commerce and advertising. Besides, video games and gamification are analyzed considering their psychological implications and applications in education, training, and marketing, particularly in cognitive sciences. The exploitation of Virtual Reality (VR) and virtual environments in psychology research, education, and professional domains is deepened. Finally, the impact of pervasive technology is examined, delving into data-driven societies and personal data usage.

The “Consumer Behavior” course in the food and beverage industry offers a comprehensive exploration of how consumers make choices and interact with products. This course aims to equip students with a deep understanding of consumer decision-making processes, trends, and influences. It covers topics such as the impact of online platforms, the role of advertising in shaping preferences, brand perception, cultural influences, and psychological factors affecting choices. Additionally, it delves into sustainability and ethical considerations in food selection. The course emphasizes the practical application of knowledge within the industry, allowing students to use their insights in product development, marketing, and business management. By the end, students will be well-prepared to navigate the complex landscape of consumer behavior in the food and beverage sector, making informed decisions and contributing effectively to the industry.

The course aim is to acquaint students with methodological principles, procedural criteria, and theoretical foundations of qualitative research methods as they relate to examining technologically mediated interactions and engagement with digital interfaces. It emphasizes two key approaches: categorization through a coding scheme and sequential analysis rooted in conversation analysis. A significant feature of the course is its strong practical orientation. Throughout the course, students will engage in exercises and projects and participation in classroom activities will facilitate the development of essential skills, including: applying scientific criteria when analyzing qualitative data; distinguishing between top-down and bottom-up analytical methods; proficiently transcribing audio-video data; and effectively employing arguments to substantiate one’s analytical findings. This course empowers students to proficiently navigate the landscape of qualitative research within the realm of technologically mediated interactions and digital interfaces.