Introduction to Human Centered Engineering
In this course, we will learn about and practice engineering methods to tackle design problems through a human-centered lens. These methods include introductory work with: mathematical
models, statistics, physical prototyping, computer-aided design, decision-making approaches, and observation and interview techniques. We will learn how these methods can be employed while working on a design problem, including problem formulation, data analysis, design trade-offs, concept selection, and design deployment. At the end of this course, we will have a working understanding of how human-centered engineers think and work.
Physical Computing: Interactive Art, Robotics, and Tech for Good
Low-cost microcontrollers, sensors, and computing devices like the Raspberry Pi make it possible to create technical projects that humans can physically interact with. This course assumes no prior programming experience but will progress quickly through block-based MakeCode programming, then CircuitPython programming so that all students have coding knowledge necessary to create hardware projects. Students will purchase an amount of hardware and tools similar to the cost of books in a standard course, and we’ll use these parts to build a series of projects that control lights, read sensors, produce sound, respond to touch and app control, capture camera images, and more. We’ll also build a wheel-based robot, and students will have an opportunity to create and present several original projects and share their work with classmates. This course was formerly numbered: ISYS2170.
Information and Communication Design
This studio-based undergraduate course focuses on the theory and practice of designing information graphics and visual systems with purpose. Building on design thinking methodologies
and core principles of design, students investigate audience needs, contexts of use, and levels of visual literacy to create effective and impactful visual communication for applications such as signage, exhibitions, wayfinding, instructional materials, and public communication. Emphasis is placed on visual hierarchy, typography, layout, accessibility, narrative, and iterative design using manual and digital tools. This course was previously titled: “Data Visual Communication Design”. Prerequisite: (UNAS1025 or ARTS1125 or ENGR1025) or ENGR1026 or ENGR1801 or HIST1627).
Interaction Design
This course is an introduction to the design and development of interactive media, artifacts, products, and services. Interaction design dynamically combines a number of disciplines, including art, engineering, design, and social science in order to understand and create meaningful and engaging experiences for people. Topics include aesthetics, design ethics, user-experience and user interface design, sustainability, and human factors. Students will conduct research and work iteratively, utilizing sketching, prototyping, and fabrication as a means of refining their design and improving their craft as well as become familiar with industry-standard prototyping programs and applications through hands-on projects.
Design Research Methods and Implementation
How do insights drive impact? This undergraduate course explores how design research supports the implementation of ideas within real-world systems such as organizations, communities, and services. Students learn human-centered research approaches including ethnographic research, co-design, and participatory design methods to understand peoples experiences and needs in context, and work collaboratively to translate insights into ideas that can be tested, adapted, and implemented in practice. Emphasis is placed on qualitative research, shared inquiry, and reflective practice, and on how systems, constraints, and coordination shape feasibility, ethics, and impact across education, healthcare, technology, policy, and community settings. Prerequisite: (UNAS1025 or ARTS1125 or ENGR1025) or ENGR1801 or HIST1627 or ENGR1026).
