Semester.ly

Johns Hopkins University | EN.600.250

User Interfaces and Mobile Applications

3.0

credits

Average Course Rating

(3.66)

This course will provide students with a rich development experience, focused on the design and implementation of user interfaces and mobile applications. A brief overview of human computer interaction will provide context for designing, prototyping and evaluating user interfaces. Students will invent their own mobile applications and implement them using the Android SDK, which is JAVA based. An overview of the Android platform and available technologies will be provided, as well as XML for layouts, and general concepts for effective mobile development. Students will be expected to explore and experiment with outside resources in order to learn technical details independently. There will also be an emphasis on building teamwork skills, and on using modern development techniques and tools.

Spring 2013

(3.27)

Spring 2014

(3.58)

Spring 2015

(4.14)

Spring 2013

Professor: Peter Froehlich

(3.27)

The best aspects of this course included the freedom to both code and write apps, the motivation with which the instructor provided students to work independently, and the teacher/pupil interaction. Some 79 students felt both the class and instructor were disorganized. One student felt as though there was too much reliance on the textbook insofar as relaying subject material. Suggestions included incorporating prewritten homework assignments and making certain lectures pertain to the material. Prospective students should be comfortable with Java and be prepared to do independent research.

Spring 2014

Professor: Joanne Selinski

(3.58)

The best aspect of this course was that students learned how to code Android applications completely from scratch. Students were able to choose their own final project and work in groups. Also, the provided materials for UI testing were very convenient, and evaluating other people’s designs was good practice. However, many students felt that the professor was ineffective and that they didn’t learn anything. In addition, the course lacked structure and the beginning parts of the class were very difficult. It was suggested by students that the time spent on design reviews be limited, that there be more guidance during the final project, and that more time be spent on Android coding. Prospective students should make sure they have Java down and are able to teach themselves concepts.

Spring 2015

Professor: Joanne Selinski

(4.14)

86The best aspects of the class included the opportunity to learn about programming through the hands-on development of an Android app and the freedom to develop a project within a group setting. Some students felt that the course was too focused on the design aspect of the project and did not include enough about development or implementation. Students suggested spending more time on the actual coding, and making the class more organized and structured with clearer deadlines. Prospective students may benefit from a prior background with Java, and should be prepared for some independent learning of Android programming.