Opinto-opas

Objective

The aim of this course is to introduce different theoretical frameworks and philosophies behind the main design methods and obtain theoretical knowledge and practical experience about the human-centered interaction design process and common methods used in interaction design. What have been the original aims of these theories and why these are still in use. Knowing the background helps to evaluate which methods are fit for what kind of design and research-based design aims and tasks taking into account the context of design.

On completion of the course, student:
Understands the fundamentals of human-centered interaction design process; Is able to choose and adjust interaction design methods for the specific design challenge; Is able to use human-centered design and research methods for understanding the context, framing the problem and exploring possible solutions; Is able to create low- and high-fidelity prototypes, according to usability principles and design patterns, learns teamwork and collaboration.

Content

1. ‘Introduction to interaction design.’ Understanding the context and choosing relevant interaction design methods for a design challenge: Background methods – literature reviews, quick and dirty ethnography; co-designing part – interviews, surveys, observations, diaries, competitive reviews; continuous evaluation – user feedback, user description, user analysis.
Identifying insights: thematic analysis, concept maps, timelines,affinity diagramming. Framing the problem: personas, user journey maps. Exploring possible solutions: ideation methods, scenario-based design, user stories. Information architecture, cardsorting. Design patterns, user interface guidelines and design systems. Low-fidelity prototyping techniques: paper prototyping and wireframes. High-fidelity prototyping: tools and techniques.

2. 'Defining Design' provides an overview of different approaches and philosophies to design discipline. Historical overview of the development of design theory. Lecture and group task.

3. 'Design Process, Methods and Tools' looks at the historical development of design methodology addressing fundamental questions about methods: What is the use of methods? What is the value of methods? Lecture and group task.

4. 'Design Methodologies' introduces the core of different contemporary methodologies like user-centred design, inclusive design, social design, systems oriented design, creative and critical design, participatory design., etc. Design is taken as a complex problem solving applied into real world cases; Challenges of coping with complex problems and solutions to overcome the challenges;human interpretation biases are also discussed. Discussing the potential cases of design in groups.

5. 'Design management' introduces design in business and public sector. Focusses on leading design projects and composing design briefs. Discusses about design in policies and strategies.Lecture, students' presentations and discussion.

Location and time

On-line course, two weekly 3 hours session with the teachers and independent work.

Materials

To be discussed with the teacher. It is not possible to pass the course only through replacement literature.

Teaching methods

Lectures during the first three weeks of the course. Last five weeks working in project teams on solving a digital transformation challenge.

International connections

The course will be run as a joint course with TLU (Tallinn University)

Evaluation scale

0-5

Assessment criteria, satisfactory (1)

Student has achieved the course objectives fairly. Student will be able to identify, define and use the course subject area’s concepts and models. Student understands the criteria and principles of the expertise development.

Assessment criteria, good (3)

Student has achieved the course objectives well, even though the knowledge and skills need improvement on some areas. Student is able to define the course concepts and models and is able to justify the analysis. Student is able to apply his/her knowledge in study and work situations. Student understands the importance of expertise in the field of information and communication technology and is able to analyze his/her own expertise.

Assessment criteria, excellent (5)

Student has achieved the objectives of the course with excellent marks. Student masters commendably the course subject area’s concepts and models. Student is able to make justified and fluent analysis and to present concrete development measures. Student is well prepared to apply his/her knowledge in study and work situations. Student is able to analyze expertise in the information and communication technology sector and the development of his/her own expertise.

Assessment criteria, approved/failed

Student has achieved the course objectives fairly. Student will be able to identify, define and use the course subject area’s concepts and models. Student understands the criteria and principles of the expertise development.

Assessment methods and criteria

Participants are expected to prepare for classes by undertaking the assigned readings etc. The quality of class participation and group interaction will be used as an assessment method - peer assessment. Presentations are also assessed by how well the main points have been detected, how clear the presentations were, how well the audience has been engaged.

Qualifications

No prior knowledge of design is required.

Further information

The course is run jointly by Tallinn University and Metropolia University of Applied Sciences. For more information contact: Merja Bauters (bauters@tlu.ee) Professor in Digital Transformation or Petri Vesikivi (petri.vesikivi@metropolia.fi), Principal Lecturer Mobile Solutions.