Computer-Mediated Collaboration

Course Code: DA604A

Institution:

Computer Science

Revision:

1

For students admitted fall 2011  

Other set versions

Approval

The course was established 18 February 2011.
This course syllabus (version 1) was approved 18 February 2011 by the Study Programmes Board/Study Courses Board at School of Technology.
The syllabus is valid from 01 September 2011.

Education level

Second cycle

Course description

The aim of the course is that the student shall learn to analyse an existing system for computer-mediated collaboration, as well as design a new such system with an understanding of the impact it may have on collaborative activity.

Advancement in relation to the degree requirements

This course forms part of Media Software Design, Computer Science Master's programme 120 higher education credtis.

Entry requirements

Bachelor degree in Computer Science or a degree in a related field. All degrees must be equivalent to at least 180 higher education credits.

Learning outcomes

Knowledge and understanding
On completion of the course the student shall demonstrate

• knowledge of central concepts and theories of collaboration,
• knowledge of different types of collaboration,
• knowledge of different types of tools that support collaboration and how these tools are used, and
• knowledge of tool success factors.

Skills and abilities
On completion of the course the student shall demonstrate

• ability to analyse how different collaboration tools affect collaboration practices,
• ability to select suitable existing collaboration tools based on the needs of a given team, organization, or community, and
• ability to design new tools for collaboration based on the needs of a given team, organization, or community.

Judgement and approach
On completion of the course the student shall demonstrate

• ability to evaluate existing systems for computer-mediated collaboration.

Assessments

Requirements for pass: Passed assignments and passed written examination.
Requirements for pass with distinction: Passed assignments and passed with distinction written examination.



Course content

The course contains concepts that are central to computer-mediated collaboration, including: communication, coordination, cooperation, awareness, reciprocity, trust, and synchronisation. Moreover, important tools and technologies are covered, e.g., e-mail, social media, shared workspaces, teleconferencing, wikis, and other emerging technologies. A number of application areas are addressed, such as, education, entertainment, social networks, health care, government, and decision support.


Learning activities

Lectures (approximately 25 hours), seminars (approximately 15 hours), hand-in tasks and laboratory work (approximately 80 hours), and individual studies (approximately 80 hours).



Grading system

Fail (U), Pass (G) or Pass with Distinction (VG).


Reading list and other media

Collection of articles



Course evaluation

All students are given the opportunity to give their comments at the end of the course in writing. A compilation of the results will be available on the faculty computer net. Student participation is in the form of course meetings.