Department of Computer Science
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Student Profile
Peter Kennaugh
MSc in Human-Centred Interactive Technologies
I am currently studying for an MSc in Human-Centred Interactive Technologies, having completed a BSc in Computer Science at York in 2007.
Why did you decide to study Computer Science? After the two years of this course I knew computing was the career path for me, and it seemed natural to move into studying Computer Science at University. As well as this, growing up during a period of dramatic growth and development of various technologies, I was keen to get involved in such an exciting sector.
Traditional lectures are supplemented by practical classes or seminars allowing us to gain practice using new concepts within simulated real-life situations.
What have been the best aspects of the course so far? The AIT (Advanced Topics in Interactive Technologies) module has been a particular highlight, consisting of a series of 'masterclasses' with different speakers from both within the department and externally talking about a subject area they are actively involved in. Not only have these classes introduced us to many different examples of current research being performed, but the diverse range of topics has increased my awareness of the many possibilities for future work within Human-Computer Interaction.
What do you like about the way the course is delivered? Two things really stand out about the delivery of the course. Firstly, a variety of different teaching methods are used within each unit, so traditional lectures are supplemented by practical classes or seminars. These allow us to gain practice using new concepts within simulated real-life situations, which in turn re-enforces our understanding for the material. Secondly, the lecturers have a real passion for what they are teaching and this comes across within the lectures. This in turn generates an atmosphere of enthusiasm for the topic within the group.
What is your opinion of the Computer Science Department as a whole in terms of people interaction and atmosphere? I've always felt that there is someone available in the department if I need to talk, even if it's completely unrelated to the course! Lecturers and researchers are always happy to discuss a subject further, or to offer additional assistance on difficult topics. This helps maintain the supportive atmosphere that I find within the department.
What do you think about the facilities in the department? In addition to excellent general facilities, a major advantage is that every software lab is available for students to use at any time of the year. This is always appreciated the night before an assessment deadline! There are two large computer labs and a third dedicated solely to Masters students, so there is never a shortage of available computers. All computers dual-boot to either Windows or Linux, and the software available on either platform covers everything you will need throughout the course. There are also two labs dedicated for use by students studying hardware modules, although this is not applicable for the HCIT course.
What is your opinion about living in York and what do you like about the city? I fell in love with York the first time I visited the University on an open day, and this was one of the principle factors influencing my decision to study in York. Having previously lived in a small village, I enjoy the variety that a city such as York can offer, and yet I don't feel overwhelmed by the size. Even having lived in the centre of York for over four years now, I am still amazed by some of the architecture on display and I particularly appreciate the fact that everything I need is within a short cycling distance.
Do you feel part of a good student community? Yes I do, and this is helped by York being one of the few Universities to use a collegiate system. All Masters students who have not studied at York before join an exclusively postgraduate college — Wentworth. This is a great advantage as you are not bombarded with 'typical' student information but still have the opportunity to participate in a wide range of sports and social events, whether you live on campus or not. There are also a wide range of student run societies that cater for almost every interest. These can range from the relatively sane (Labour Club, DramaSoc etc.) to slightly more obscure activities (Theme Park Appreciation Society, Neighbours Soc and DougSoc to name a few!).
How do you feel about your future in terms of career, and are you confident of the Computer Science foundation and skill-set that you are developing? The skills we are learning throughout the course are both relevant for continued academic research and transferable for application within industry. I feel confident that the skill–set that I am acquiring will be valuable regardless of whichever career path I choose. This is reinforced by the knowledge that the quality of the teaching and the research carried out within the department has been consistently ranked as one of the top Computer Science departments in the country.Want to know more?
Contact the Full Time MSc Courses Administrator on +44 (0)1904 432712 or email postgraduate@cs.york.ac.uk