05-863 Introduction to Human Computer Interaction for Technology Executives
6 units, Carnegie Mellon University
Human-computer interaction (HCI) is an interdisciplinary field in which computer scientists, engineers, psychologists, social scientists, and design professionals work together to make interactive technologies useful, usable, and valuable for people and organizations. As AI transforms product and service development, creating both opportunities and challenges, HCI becomes increasingly important because designing successful technologies requires a deep understanding of human needs, behaviors, and decision-making. This half-semester course introduces HCI principles and methods as they apply to technology executives and product leaders. Students will learn core HCI methods—including user research, stakeholder analysis, journey mapping, ideation, prototyping, and usability testing—and how these methods generate evidence for strategic product decisions. We will also examine how AI is changing each stage of product and service development and explore the implications for HCI methods and practice. Through short lectures, discussions, case studies, and hands-on activities, students will analyze existing products and services, evaluate user research findings and prototypes, and make strategic product decisions. By the end of the course, students will understand both the principles and methods of HCI in the age of AI and be able to apply them to technology and product decisions.
Prerequisites: none listed
Offered: Fall 2026, Fall 2025
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