How and why do we perceive “minds” behind non-living objects? This online course dives into the fascinating psychological dynamics of human-computer interaction, uncovering the reasons behind our innate tendency to attribute social and mental characteristics to technology.
We begin by exploring foundational psychological theories that apply to any technology displaying social cues—tools and devices that seem to have intentions, emotions, or personalities. As the course progresses, each day will spotlight a distinct type of social technology, from disembodied agents like chatbots to embodied entities like robots.
Through interactive discussions and debates, we will examine how these technologies influence science and society. How can they help us learn more about ourselves? How might they address societal challenges such as loneliness? We’ll also delve into complex topics like ethics, privacy, and the fine line between persuasion and manipulation, weighing the pros and cons of these technologies.
This course is designed to accommodate both bachelor’s and master’s level students, with no prior experience in human-computer interaction required.
Learning objectives
- Understand human-computer interactions and the psychological principles behind them.
- Recognize variations in human responses to different types of computers and digital agents.
- Evaluate the role of digital agents in scientific research, understanding their advantages and limitations.
- Assess the societal impact of digital agents, including their benefits and potential drawbacks.
