We propose a laboratory in which students will investigate the design and implementation of human-computer interfaces (HCIs). The laboratory will enhance two courses currently taught at Appalachian State University, Human-Computer Interface Design and Microcomputer Systems. It will allow students to build prototypes of HCIs, compare HCI design options, create professional presentations of HCI designs, and implement HCIs including graphical user interfaces using an object-oriented language (C++) with appropriate software library support. Currently, many undergraduates have little opportunity to explore the development of HCIs even though one-half of many software development projects involve the development of the human-computer interface. The current situation leaves many undergraduates woefully unprepared for current practice in software development. Our proposal helps to alleviate this problem by exposing these students to the difficult design decisions and programming techniques that arise in HCI development through the use of supervised and unsupervised laboratory exercises.
