Human-Centered Design: an Introduction Course Syllabus

Overview: This beginner-level course introduces the core principles and practices of human-centered design (HCD), guiding learners through a step-by-step process of understanding users, prototyping solutions, and iterating based on feedback. Designed for professionals and students in technology and design fields, the course blends theory with hands-on exercises. The curriculum spans five core modules followed by a final project, requiring approximately 30-35 hours of self-paced learning, making it ideal for working professionals seeking flexibility.

Module 1: Introduction to Human-Centered Design

Estimated time: 6 hours

• Overview of HCD principles and their significance in technology design
• Understanding the user-centered approach to problem-solving
• Historical context and evolution of human-centered design
• Role of empathy in design innovation

Module 2: Needfinding and Design Research

Estimated time: 8 hours

• Techniques for conducting fieldwork to gather user insights
• Interviewing users and observing behaviors in real-world contexts
• Identifying pain points and unmet needs
• Methods for synthesizing research findings into actionable design goals

Module 3: Rapid Prototyping

Estimated time: 7 hours

• Creating low-fidelity prototypes to explore design ideas
• Paper prototyping techniques for interface design
• Using Wizard of Oz methods to simulate system behavior
• Iterating quickly across multiple design alternatives

Module 4: Design Evaluation

Estimated time: 7 hours

• Strategies for evaluating prototypes with users
• Conducting usability tests and gathering qualitative feedback
• Incorporating stakeholder input to refine design solutions
• Identifying patterns in user responses for informed iteration

Module 5: Creativity and Design Thinking

Estimated time: 6 hours

• Applying design-thinking methods to foster innovation
• Encouraging creative confidence in problem-solving
• Supporting iterative design processes for continuous improvement

Module 6: Final Project

Estimated time: 10 hours

• Conduct original field research to identify a user need
• Create interactive paper prototypes and low-fidelity mock-ups
• Evaluate designs with users and submit a revised solution

Prerequisites

• Basic familiarity with technology interfaces
• Willingness to engage in hands-on design activities
• Access to simple prototyping materials (e.g., paper, pens, sticky notes)

What You'll Be Able to Do After

• Apply human-centered design principles to real-world problems
• Conduct field research to uncover user needs and behaviors
• Create and test low-fidelity prototypes effectively
• Evaluate design solutions using user feedback
• Apply design-thinking strategies to foster creativity across domains