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Unit of study_

DECO1013: Physical Computing

This unit introduces students to the principles of physical computing and its application in interaction design projects. This includes conceptualising computer-based implementations of product interfaces using hardware platforms such as Arduinos or littleBits, for prototyping physical computing interfaces. It introduces the core concepts of physical prototyping, basic electronic concepts, hardware programming, as well as aesthetic issues in product design. The unit covers: prototyping techniques for physical user interfaces, methods of programming and assessing interactive products, product design techniques, especially in relation to interactive contexts, and awareness of issues of aesthetics in physical computing interfaces.

Code DECO1013
Academic unit Design Lab
Credit points 6
Prerequisites:
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(DECO1006 or DECO2016) and DECO1012
Corequisites:
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None
Prohibitions:
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None

At the completion of this unit, you should be able to:

  • LO1. display a critical and informed understanding of physical computing principles for digital product design
  • LO2. develop concepts of digital products that combine physical interfaces and user interaction
  • LO3. demonstrate a sound understanding of the physical computing platform including use of input process, output models and interaction models
  • LO4. demonstrate proficiency with digital tools and programming skills necessary to implement a physical computing concept
  • LO5. prototype a novel physical computing device that does not rely on screen-based interaction and feedback.

Unit outlines

Unit outlines will be available 2 weeks before the first day of teaching for the relevant session.

There are no unit outlines available online for the current year.