Prototyping for/with users, 7.5 Credits

Contents

The course introduces the basics of contemporary user-centered design methodology, and deals more specifically with how prototypes can be used in the design process to develop and evaluate ideas and concepts in interaction with users. To a large extent, the practical and creative work will form the basis for contextualization and application of user-centered design methodology.
During the course, students work iteratively, individually as well as in groups, with questions, concepts and ideas based on user needs and design opportunities in the frame of ongoing project work. The focus is on using quick, simple prototypes and user-centered methods to open up issues, critically relate to audiences and user groups, and reflect on user perspectives on and in development processes, and to iteratively test and further develop different concepts.

Expected learning outcomes

After having completed the course, the student will be able to:

Knowledge and understanding

• Critically evaluate methods in contemporary user-centered design practice
• Apply methods for rapid prototyping work, as well as how different methods can be used in user-centered design processes.
• At a basic level, apply prototyping methods for and along with users, based on a user-centered design methodology.

Competence and skills

• Apply knowledge obtained through an iterative prototyping process to formulate and reformulate design suggestions based on insights about and by users.
• Identify and reflect on design decisions and development processes in relation to the user.
• Demonstrate ability to express and argue clearly and in writing for design processes based on a user-centered perspective

Judgement and approach

• Relate knowledge and insights in user-centered design processes to a larger social context, with particular regard to sustainability issues.

Required Knowledge

A Bachelor´s degree which should include at least 90 ECTS in the field of; Engineering, Design, Architecture, Informatics, Economics or equivalent studies. Proficiency in English equivalent to Swedish upper secondary course English B/6.

Form of instruction

The teaching is conducted in the form of lectures, seminars, workshops, tutoring and practical exercises in the framework of project work that runs through the course. Many of the teacher-led classes are mandatory, as they are of a testing or examining nature. During the course, various methods for prototyping, as well as methods for user-inclusive processes, will be introduced and students will use on their own in workshops and user engagements. Specific tutorials will be given in relation to these applications. The teaching language is English.

Examination modes

Examination is conducted using oral, visual and written presentation of a team project in addition to submission of an individual essay. Examinatory tasks are also given throughout the course, in the form of form design tasks in 2D or 3D, or in the form of written or oral analysis assignments and presentations.
The grade on the course is based on all the different forms of examination, and is set when all mandatory assignments have been carried out. For Pass (G), students must be present at the teacher led education that is of assessment character, and also present a visual, oral and written presentation of a group project work as well as an individual written assignment.
For students who have not obtained the grade Pass, other examination sessions will be arranged. A student who for two consecutive examinations for the same course or sub-course has not been passed, has the right to have another examiner appointed, if there are no special reasons against this (Higher Education Ordinance chapter 6, 22 §). The request for a new examiner shall be made in writing to Head of Department of the Umeå Institute of Design.

Academic credit transfer
Students have the right to request that previous studies, or equivalent knowledge and skills acquired in a professional, work-related capacity, be validated and transferred into credits on an equivalent course or programme at Umeå University. Applications for credit transfer should be addressed to Student Services/Degree Evaluation Office. More information can be found at the Umeå University student web site (www.student.umu.se/english) and in Chapter 6 of the Higher Education Ordinance. Appeals may be made to the Higher Education Appeals Board (ÖNH) against a decision by the university not to approve an application for credit transfer (Higher Education Ordinance, Chapter 12), even in cases where only a part of the application has been rejected.