Human-Computer Interaction in the Developing World
Seminar Course 05-899 C
Last offered in Spring 2009


Instructor: Matthew Kam
Units: 12

In its relatively short history, computing technologies have revolutionized the ways that we live, work and play. Yet these advances have mostly focused on the middle-class in industrialized nations. Can computing make a difference in empowering the poor in developing countries to address the challenges in their daily lives? To what extent do traditional user-centered design methods in HCI (Human-Computer Interaction) such as participatory design, contextual inquiry and iterative testing ensure that the systems we design truly address the needs of the poor in the developing world? How is designing for – and with – villagers and urban slum dwellers different from designing for middle-income users in the industrialized world? Finally, what does HCI inform other computing sub-disciplines in making an impact on the developing world?

This seminar course will explore the emerging body of literature on HCI in the Developing World. We will examine the applications of HCI methods in developing world contexts such as education, agriculture, healthcare and microfinance. We will cover developing regions which include Africa, China, India, Latin America, and of course, the so-called developed world.

This course does not assume a prerequisite in HCI, and non-HCII students in the SCS and other campus units are welcome. Advanced undergraduates may enroll with the instructor’s permission. Enrolled students will be required to participate in class activities, write weekly reflections on the readings, and submit a term paper. Students who wish to write a term paper based on a design project should consult the instructor ahead of time.

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