WaSP InterACT

1.  / User Science

User Science

Key knowledge areas in designing interaction and information for user experience as well as essential techniques for undertaking successful evaluations.

• User Research US-100 | User Science

  With HCI, Usability, and Information Architecture being a strong influence in today’s digital world it is essential that computer science, web designers, developers, and others associated with interaction design for online and tangible products understand the importance and basics of the effects of user science on society. This course introduces students to concepts and foundational principles in user research. Through topics presented in the course, students will learn where user research fits into the product and interface design project lifecycles, ethics and competency when conducting research, ROI and strategies for promoting user research efforts within organizations, distinctions between qualitative and quantitative research, and understanding the range of issues addressed in the field.

• Information Architecture 1 US-200 | User Science

  The course will introduce students to the core principles and methodologies of Information Architecture including conducting user research, content assessment and organization, documenting technical processes within systems, defining organizational structures, and developing interactive prototypes. Upon completion of this course, students will be able to design organizational systems that facilitate efficient retrieval of information.

• Interaction Design 1 US-300 | User Science

  In this course students will learn to use the principles of Interaction Design to define a software project in terms of its purpose, scope, audience, major elements, task flows, layout, and more. Students will identify a need, define a solution, and create deliverables for an entire interaction design project. Standard design patterns, and frameworks will be introduced in order to create interfaces that map to users’ expectations and improve the user experience.

• Prototyping US-330 | User Science

  In this course students will learn how to use prototyping as a method to explore design, communicate, and test design concepts with fellow team members and clients. Students will learn a number of different prototyping methods and tools, including paper, PowerPoint/Keynote, Visio/OmniGraffle, Fireworks, Axure, and HTML. Students will also learn a number of guiding principles, tips, and tricks to help make their prototypes more effective.

• Usability 1 US-400 | User Science

  This course will introduce students to usability design concepts and authentic test methods for interactive media. Usability is grounded in tailoring interface design for the most effective user experience. Students will design, conduct and analyze usability tests based on established principles, research findings and theory. Upon completion of this course, students will be able to develop a usability test plan, recruit appropriate users, create robust task scenarios, facilitate testing, and analyze and communicate the test results.

WaSP InterACT welcomes content contributions. Contact us if you would like to help us develop our living curriculum.