Module Content

This module introduces students to experimental processes of prototyping through varying degrees of fidelities, to envision concepts as tangible artefacts to test, refine and validate. The module builds on learning content from User-Centred Design by continuing the iterative design process. Students will advance their skills in ideation and low fidelity prototyping in producing high-fidelity prototypes. 

The module considers the workflows, processes and approaches to iterative design, 

prototype construction and evaluation methods. Applying industry standards and academic insights in discovery, defining, developing, and delivering solutions as a response to real-world problems. Students will also critically reflect on their process as they document their approach, methods, and techniques in prototyping and evaluating digital experiences. 

Syllabus content 

The syllabus is broken down into four areas; to record and reflect on processes, design, and develop visions communicated using visual and tangible techniques and to validate understanding through testing and evaluation. 

Process 

• Applying project management tools to effectively log, track and audit a project workflow (for example, Azure DevOps, Jira, Trello) 

• Plan iterative and incremental workflows 

• Establish advanced UX strategies by providing meaningful, contextualised understandings of the world and users 

Envisioning 

• Establish empathy with end-users to identify needs, motivations, and behaviours for defining problems 

• Illustrate visions through storytelling techniques such as user stories, storyboarding, and user journeys 

Develop 

• Design wireframes as a schematic to communicate visions 

• Experiment with best practices in creating high fidelity prototypes to construct meaning (for example, Figma, Adobe XD, UXPin, Invision etc…) 

Evaluate 

• Explore methods for conducting prototype evaluations (for example, usability testing, a/b testing, heuristic evaluations, cognitive walkthroughs, design critique, scenarios, focus groups, surveys, interviews etc) 

• Analyse data to create meaningful insights to support prototype iteration 

• Reporting evaluation findings 

This module blends design practice with building. You will apply knowledge and theory from design as a practice in an iterative process where your designs will come to life. 

Teaching Methods

As a practical topic, the module follows a studio-based learning approach, students will learn by doing in a studio environment. With a combination of lecture, demonstration, critique and presentation. 

Learning materials will be delivered that consider the processes, approaches and techniques of prototyping and evaluating within studying User Experience. Tutorials will be used to build a learner’s understanding of the subject area which provides the foundations for assessment. 

The tasks to be completed in the studio are structured to support students in continuing their learning outside of the classes, which they are expected to do every week. The coursework assessment expects students to undertake a significant UX project that is informed by relevant research, design methods and development of a prototype, and makes use of appropriate UXD techniques to evaluate and iterate progress. 

Assessment Methods

1. Prototype and report - weight 50%
2. Exam - weight 50%.
To pass this module you must achieve a mark of 50% or above, aggregated across all the assessments.