UXD 390 Special Topics in User Experience Design
Summary
This foundational course explores theoretical frameworks and practical methods for human centered design, emphasizing approaches that address complex social and technological challenges. We will examine frameworks such as activity theory, participatory design, value sensitive design, design justice, and pluriversal design, examining how these perspectives shape design decisions and outcomes. Through readings, discussions, guest speakers, in-class activities, and projects, students will explore a range of methods aligned with these theories, such as ethnographic interviewing, co-design workshops, value mapping, and speculative design. Students will not only learn methods and develop projects aligned with their own interests, but critically reflect on how theoretical commitments shape design decisions and outcomes.
Grading
Assessment in this course involves the following:
- 3-2-1 Plus Two Reading Responses. Critical engagement with theories and concepts in the required readings is a key aspect of this course. To support your understanding and our collective knowledge building, short written reflections and responses to peer posts will be assigned for most weeks.
- Participation and Engagement. This component reflects your overall presence, preparedness, active contribution, and professional conduct. Treat class sessions as professional meetings—be on time, engaged, and respectful. Attendance is taken every class. If anything affects your attendance or participation, contact me as soon as possible so we can plan together.
- Case Example Presentation. Students will select a theoretical framework and case example, and make a short presentation connecting to the theoretical ideas.
- Final Project. The final assessment (in lieu of “exams”) is the final project. Students will work individually or in pairs in a final project with integrate theory and practice. Various project types and formats may be selected to align with interests.
Prerequisites
Course Schedule and Topics
- Class 1 - Course overview and expectations, Significance of theory in design practice, Strategic reading and process, User Centered Design
- Class 2 - Human Centered Design, Humanity Centered Design, Building a conceptual framework for analyzing theory
- Class 3 - Activity Theory
- Class 4 - Value Sensitive Design
- Class 5 - Design Justice
- Class 6 - Pluriversal Design
- Class 7 - Synthesis and Extension
- Class 8 - Final Projects
- Class 9 - Final Projects
- Class 10 - Final Project Presentations
Learning Objectives
- Identify and and compare major theoretical frameworks in human centered design.
- Reflect on ethical considerations by examining how theoretical commitments influence design decision and outcomes.
- Integrate theory and practice by producing design proposals or creative works that reflect an understanding of theoretical frameworks and their methodological implications.
This syllabus is subject to change as necessary during the quarter. If a change occurs, it will be thoroughly addressed during class, posted under Announcements in D2L and sent via email.
Evaluations are a way for students to provide valuable feedback regarding their instructor and the course. Detailed feedback will enable the instructor to continuously tailor teaching methods and course
content to meet the learning goals of the course and the academic needs of the students. They are a requirement of the course and are key to continue to provide you with the highest quality of teaching. The
evaluations are anonymous; the instructor and administration do not track who entered what responses. A program is used to check if the student completed the evaluations, but the evaluation is completely
separate from the student’s identity. Since 100% participation is our goal, students are sent periodic reminders over three weeks. Students do not receive reminders once they complete the evaluation.
Students complete the evaluation online in CampusConnect.
This course will be subject to the university's academic integrity policy. More information can be found at http://academicintegrity.depaul.edu/ If you
have any questions be sure to consult with your professor.
All students are expected to abide by the University's Academic Integrity Policy which prohibits cheating and other misconduct in student coursework. Publicly sharing or posting online any prior or current materials from this course (including exam questions or answers), is considered to be providing unauthorized assistance prohibited by the policy. Both students who share/post and students who access or use such materials are considered to be cheating under the Policy and will be subject to sanctions for violations of Academic Integrity.
All students are required to manage their class schedules each term in accordance with the deadlines for enrolling and withdrawing as indicated in the University Academic Calendar. Information on enrollment, withdrawal, grading and incompletes can be found at http://www.cdm.depaul.edu/Current%20Students/Pages/PoliciesandProcedures.aspx.
Students who feel they may need an accommodation based on the impact of a disability should contact the instructor privately to discuss their specific needs. All discussions will remain confidential.
To ensure that you receive the most appropriate accommodation based on your needs, contact the instructor as early as possible in the quarter (preferably within the first week of class), and make sure that
you have contacted the Center for Students with Disabilities (CSD) at:
Lewis Center 1420, 25 East Jackson Blvd.
Phone number: (312)362-8002
Fax: (312)362-6544
TTY: (773)325.7296