Design Methods module (CS31005)

Sophisticated design of user interfaces and interactions is essential for creating user-friendly and visually appealing digital products that enhance user experience and drive engagement.

In order to create effective designs, you will study different approaches to design development. You will explore the various processes within these approaches, and develop an intuitive and creative thinking for design considerations.

Equipped with this knowledge, you will be able to design experiences that meet the needs of your users and steer engagement with your product.

What you will learn

In this module, you will:

• study different design paradigms
• learn how to formulate a problem definition for design problems
• explore different methods to facilitate creative thinking
• explore human considerations in experience design
• study industry standard design practices for user interfaces, experience, and interactions
   
• learn how to critically evaluate design of existing user interfaces, experience, and interactions

By the end of this module, you will be able to:

• explain the methods, tools, and techniques used across UI, UX, and interaction design industries
• recognise design paradigms and approaches to solving various design problems
• demonstrate your ability to determine and apply the most appropriate design approach to a problem
• execute relevant methods within each design approach, such as interviews, observations, prototyping, and user testing
• critically evaluate the design of existing user interfaces, experiences, and interactions, and suggest appropriate improvements
• show your ability to approach a broad range of design challenges with creative and critical thinking

Assignments / assessment

• design study planning (25%)
• design study execution and report (50%)
• class test (25%)

This module does not have a final exam.

Teaching methods / timetable

You will learn by taking a hands-on approach. This will involve taking part in tutorials and practical sessions.

Learning material is provided through videos, review notes, examples, and tutorial questions.