Understanding the Value of Human-Centered Design

Human-centered design is an approach that focuses on human needs, goals, and experiences to frame problems, develop solutions, and coordinate resources. Through a series of videos, activities, and reflection, learners will develop an appreciation for the value and impact of human-centered design as well as begin to understand what investment is required to practice it well. The course prepares learners to collaborate with human-centered design practitioners and deepen their own practice.

Upon successful completion of the course, you will be able to

- Understand concepts around gathering and synthesizing data about human attitudes, behaviors, and circumstances to match research methods to specific goals and subjects and then synthesize data into actionable frameworks that guide the design process,

- Recognize human-centered issues and value understanding people's experiences,

- Extract insights from diverse data for effective design,

- Communicate ideas clearly to build strong connections and create a well-shaped narrative that integrates human empathy to gain buy-in and cooperation for design solutions,

- Create ecosystem maps that identify key stakeholders and strategies to engage stakeholders effectively by considering their unique perspectives and expertise, ultimately leading to inclusive and coordinated actions for successful design implementation,

- Generate varied ideas, create prototypes, set goals, ask precise questions, and nurture a safe environment for innovative thinking and solution exploration.