Liberal Arts

Design Research Methods: Prod Dev & User Ex

Course No. DES353.1  Credits: 3
Faculty Kaja Tooming Buchanan

The goal of this course is to explore the methods by which designers come to understand user needs, feelings, expectations, and values. These methods are a preparation for developing breakthrough products - tangible and intangible - as well as interactions and services. We will explore several methods and their practical application in the design process to develop new products and test their usability and efficiency. Understanding user experience has become a central, distinguishing feature of the best product development, and our goal is to survey some of the best methods in current use. For example, we will learn how to build scenarios, interpret needs, generate and test ideas, visualize information and choreograph solutions. This involves interdisciplinary understanding, because many of the methods come from other fields. The growing complexity of products in our lives requires a wider understanding of how the social and behavioral sciences, together with the humanities and cultural science, are of deep value in the work of design. It requires, for example, an understanding of case study methodology, a matrix of methods of value for designers. It also requires deeper understanding of the underlying principles that give meaning, create value, and direct the whole design process. The course will be based on readings, exercises, and a variety of practical projects that support studio work. Apply as studio elective or as art/craft/design history/theory liberal arts distribution requirement. 3 credits. Grading Criteria Final grades will be based on two components: o Class participation will account for ? final grade o Individual and team projects will account for ? of the final grade. Participation will be evaluated by readiness for discussion (evidence of having read the assigned materials), response to questions and effort to contribute to class discussion.