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Joseph A Konstan,
Loren Terveen,
Haiyi Zhu,
Lana Yarosh,
and
Dr. Brent Hecht
In this course you will learn and practice techniques of user research and early UI design exploration. First, you will learn and practice several techniques for user research, including in-person research and survey and log-analysis techniques. Then, you will learn to analyze and deliver user research in forms that support UI design, including personas, use cases, tasks, and scenarios. Finally, you will learn and practice ideation techniques that start from user research and broadly generate potential design ideas.
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
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What's inside
Syllabus
Preface
Note that weeks 1 and 2 form a cohesive whole, with more lecture content in week 1, and more practice (assignment and quizzing) in week 2.
Read more
Syllabus
Preface
Note that weeks 1 and 2 form a cohesive whole, with more lecture content in week 1, and more practice (assignment and quizzing) in week 2.
Read more
Traffic lights
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause and
possible dealbreakers
Explores techniques and methods from user research and early UI design
Taught by a team of instructors with extensive experience in the field
Covers a range of topics relevant to user research and UI design, including user research methods, UI design ideation, and prototyping
Includes hands-on assignments and exercises to provide practical experience
Suitable for professionals and students interested in learning about user research and UI design
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Reviews summary
Solid foundation in user research and design
According to learners, this course provides a solid and clear foundation in user research methods and early UI design exploration. Many found the practical assignments and hands-on exercises to be the most valuable aspect, helping them apply concepts like personas, scenarios, and ideation techniques effectively. The instructor is highly regarded for their clear explanations and expertise. While highly recommended for beginners entering the field, some students with prior experience felt the course covers fundamental concepts and wished for more depth or coverage of advanced topics and tools, potentially serving as a warning for experienced practitioners seeking advanced knowledge.
Knowledgeable instructor explains concepts well.
"The instructor explains everything very clearly and is knowledgeable."
"You can tell the professor really knows the subject and is passionate about it."
"Enjoyed the teaching style and the examples provided throughout the lectures."
"The instructor's guidance through assignments was very helpful."
Excellent introduction for those starting out.
"As someone new to UX, this was the perfect introduction."
"Highly recommend for anyone just starting out in user research."
"The course is very accessible even without prior knowledge."
"It eased me into user research in a way that wasn't overwhelming."
Assignments are hands-on and deeply helpful.
"The assignments were the highlight - applying theory through practical exercises was super helpful."
"I learned so much by actually doing the research tasks and creating deliverables like personas."
"The hands-on activities cemented the learning far better than just lectures would have."
"Appreciated the focus on practical application rather than just theoretical concepts."
Provides a strong, clear basis for beginners.
"This course gave me a really clear understanding of the fundamentals of user research."
"The content is well-structured and easy to follow, making complex ideas accessible."
"It's a great starting point if you are completely new to the field of UX research and design."
"I feel I now have a solid base in user research methods."
Covers core concepts, less depth for advanced.
"If you're already experienced in UX, this might feel a bit basic or introductory."
"I was hoping for more advanced methods or modern tool coverage, but it sticks to fundamentals."
"Covers the essentials but doesn't delve deep into niche areas or cutting-edge practices."
"Good overview, but lacks the depth needed for senior researchers."
Activities
Be better prepared
before
your course. Deepen your understanding
during
and
after
it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered
in User Research and Design with these
activities:
Review Course Prerequisites
Show steps
Sharpen your understanding of the fundamental concepts covered in the course by reviewing prerequisite materials.
Show steps
-
Recap previous knowledge in user research methods, UI design exploration and analysis techniques.
-
Review lecture notes, textbooks, or online resources to refresh your memory.
-
Complete practice problems or quizzes to test your understanding.
Conduct User Interviews
Show steps
Gain hands-on experience in gathering and analyzing user feedback through structured interviews.
Show steps
-
Design and prepare interview questions based on course materials.
-
Recruit participants and schedule interviews.
-
Conduct user interviews, actively listening and probing for insights.
-
Analyze interview data, identifying patterns and key takeaways.
-
Present your findings in a concise and informative manner.
Develop User Personas
Show steps
Create detailed user personas to represent the target audience for UI designs, ensuring empathy and user-centeredness.
Browse courses on
User Personas
Show steps
-
Gather and synthesize data from user research, including interviews, surveys, and observations.
-
Identify common patterns, motivations, and behaviors among users.
-
Develop user personas that embody these characteristics, including demographics, goals, and pain points.
-
Validate your personas with additional research or feedback from stakeholders.
-
Use personas to guide UI design decisions and ensure user needs are met.
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Explore UI Design Tools
Show steps
Enhance your proficiency in using industry-standard UI design tools to bring your design ideas to life.
Browse courses on
Prototyping
Show steps
-
Identify and research popular UI design tools, such as Figma, Adobe XD, or Sketch.
-
Follow online tutorials or workshops to learn the basics of these tools.
-
Experiment with different features and functionalities to create mockups and prototypes.
-
Share your designs with peers or mentors for feedback and improvement.
Design UI Mockups
Show steps
Apply your knowledge of user research and UI design principles to create interactive mockups that demonstrate your design ideas.
Browse courses on
UI Design
Show steps
-
Choose a specific user persona and design a UI that meets their needs.
-
Sketch out your design ideas on paper or a whiteboard.
-
Use UI design tools to create digital mockups, incorporating elements such as navigation, layout, and typography.
-
Get feedback from users or peers to refine and iterate on your designs.
Participate in UI Design Projects
Show steps
Engage in real-world UI design projects to gain practical experience and contribute to a broader design community.
Browse courses on
User Experience
Show steps
-
Identify opportunities to volunteer your UI design skills, such as non-profit organizations or open-source projects.
-
Collaborate with other designers and developers to bring UI designs to life.
-
Receive feedback and mentorship from experienced professionals.
-
Build a portfolio of UI design work that showcases your abilities.
Contribute to Open-Source UI Projects
Show steps
Get involved in open-source UI projects to contribute to the advancement of the UI design community and gain valuable experience.
Browse courses on
Collaborative Development
Show steps
-
Identify open-source UI projects that align with your interests and skills.
-
Explore the codebase and familiarize yourself with the project's goals and design principles.
-
Contribute to the project by fixing bugs, adding new features, or improving the documentation.
-
Collaborate with other contributors and learn from their experiences.
Mentor Junior UI Designers
Show steps
Share your knowledge and expertise by mentoring junior UI designers, fostering their growth and contributing to the development of the next generation of designers.
Browse courses on
Mentorship
Show steps
-
Identify opportunities to mentor junior UI designers through programs or networking events.
-
Provide guidance and support on UI design principles, best practices, and industry trends.
-
Review their work, offer constructive feedback, and encourage their professional development.
-
Connect them with other designers and resources to support their growth.
Review Course Prerequisites
Show steps
Sharpen your understanding of the fundamental concepts covered in the course by reviewing prerequisite materials.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Recap previous knowledge in user research methods, UI design exploration and analysis techniques.
- Review lecture notes, textbooks, or online resources to refresh your memory.
- Complete practice problems or quizzes to test your understanding.
Conduct User Interviews
Show steps
Gain hands-on experience in gathering and analyzing user feedback through structured interviews.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Design and prepare interview questions based on course materials.
- Recruit participants and schedule interviews.
- Conduct user interviews, actively listening and probing for insights.
- Analyze interview data, identifying patterns and key takeaways.
- Present your findings in a concise and informative manner.
Develop User Personas
Show steps
Create detailed user personas to represent the target audience for UI designs, ensuring empathy and user-centeredness.
Browse courses on
User Personas
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Gather and synthesize data from user research, including interviews, surveys, and observations.
- Identify common patterns, motivations, and behaviors among users.
- Develop user personas that embody these characteristics, including demographics, goals, and pain points.
- Validate your personas with additional research or feedback from stakeholders.
- Use personas to guide UI design decisions and ensure user needs are met.
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Explore UI Design Tools
Show steps
Enhance your proficiency in using industry-standard UI design tools to bring your design ideas to life.
Browse courses on
Prototyping
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify and research popular UI design tools, such as Figma, Adobe XD, or Sketch.
- Follow online tutorials or workshops to learn the basics of these tools.
- Experiment with different features and functionalities to create mockups and prototypes.
- Share your designs with peers or mentors for feedback and improvement.
Design UI Mockups
Show steps
Apply your knowledge of user research and UI design principles to create interactive mockups that demonstrate your design ideas.
Browse courses on
UI Design
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Choose a specific user persona and design a UI that meets their needs.
- Sketch out your design ideas on paper or a whiteboard.
- Use UI design tools to create digital mockups, incorporating elements such as navigation, layout, and typography.
- Get feedback from users or peers to refine and iterate on your designs.
Participate in UI Design Projects
Show steps
Engage in real-world UI design projects to gain practical experience and contribute to a broader design community.
Browse courses on
User Experience
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify opportunities to volunteer your UI design skills, such as non-profit organizations or open-source projects.
- Collaborate with other designers and developers to bring UI designs to life.
- Receive feedback and mentorship from experienced professionals.
- Build a portfolio of UI design work that showcases your abilities.
Contribute to Open-Source UI Projects
Show steps
Get involved in open-source UI projects to contribute to the advancement of the UI design community and gain valuable experience.
Browse courses on
Collaborative Development
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify open-source UI projects that align with your interests and skills.
- Explore the codebase and familiarize yourself with the project's goals and design principles.
- Contribute to the project by fixing bugs, adding new features, or improving the documentation.
- Collaborate with other contributors and learn from their experiences.
Mentor Junior UI Designers
Show steps
Share your knowledge and expertise by mentoring junior UI designers, fostering their growth and contributing to the development of the next generation of designers.
Browse courses on
Mentorship
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify opportunities to mentor junior UI designers through programs or networking events.
- Provide guidance and support on UI design principles, best practices, and industry trends.
- Review their work, offer constructive feedback, and encourage their professional development.
- Connect them with other designers and resources to support their growth.
Career center
Learners who complete User Research and Design will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
User Researcher
User Researcher
User Researchers conduct usability testing and other studies to determine how well users can use a particular product. They may also conduct research to determine the needs of users and develop solutions that meet those needs. The course User Research and Design would be very helpful because it teaches students how to conduct user research and analyze and deliver research results in forms that support UI design.
UX Designer
UX Designer
UX Designers create the user experience for websites, apps, and other digital products. They use research to understand the needs of users and then design interfaces that are easy to use and enjoyable to interact with. The course User Research and Design would be very helpful for UX Designers because it teaches them how to conduct user research and analyze and deliver research results in forms that support UI design.
UI Designer
UI Designer
UI Designers create the visual design of websites, apps, and other digital products. They work with UX Designers to create interfaces that are both visually appealing and easy to use. The course User Research and Design would be helpful for UI Designers because it teaches them how to conduct user research and analyze and deliver research results in forms that support UI design. Additionally, the course teaches students about ideation techniques that can be used to generate potential design ideas.
Product Designer
Product Designer
Product Designers are responsible for the overall design of a product, from its concept to its final release. They work with engineers, UX Designers, and UI Designers to create products that are both useful and desirable. The course User Research and Design would be helpful for Product Designers because it teaches them how to conduct user research and analyze and deliver research results in forms that support product design.
Interaction Designer
Interaction Designer
Interaction Designers create the way that users interact with digital products. They design the flow of information and the way that users can interact with the product. The course User Research and Design would be helpful for Interaction Designers because it teaches them how to conduct user research and analyze and deliver research results in forms that support interaction design.
Information Architect
Information Architect
Information Architects design the structure and organization of websites, apps, and other digital products. They work with UX Designers and UI Designers to create products that are easy to navigate and find information. The course User Research and Design would be helpful for Information Architects because it teaches them how to conduct user research and analyze and deliver research results in forms that support information architecture.
Content Strategist
Content Strategist
Content Strategists develop and manage the content for websites, apps, and other digital products. They work with UX Designers and UI Designers to create products that are easy to understand and use. The course User Research and Design would be helpful for Content Strategists because it teaches them how to conduct user research and analyze and deliver research results in forms that support content strategy.
Marketing Manager
Marketing Manager
Marketing Managers are responsible for developing and executing marketing campaigns. They work with UX Designers and UI Designers to create marketing materials that are effective and engaging. The course User Research and Design would be helpful for Marketing Managers because it teaches them how to conduct user research and analyze and deliver research results in forms that support marketing campaigns.
Product Manager
Product Manager
Product Managers are responsible for the overall success of a product. They work with engineers, UX Designers, UI Designers, and marketers to create products that are both useful and desirable. The course User Research and Design would be helpful for Product Managers because it teaches them how to conduct user research and analyze and deliver research results in forms that support product management.
Business Analyst
Business Analyst
Business Analysts work with businesses to identify and solve problems. They use research to understand the needs of businesses and then develop solutions that meet those needs. The course User Research and Design would be helpful for Business Analysts because it teaches them how to conduct user research and analyze and deliver research results in forms that support business analysis.
Sales Manager
Sales Manager
Sales Managers are responsible for developing and executing sales strategies. They work with sales teams to achieve sales goals. The course User Research and Design may be helpful for Sales Managers because it teaches them how to conduct user research and analyze and deliver research results in forms that support sales strategies.
Customer Success Manager
Customer Success Manager
Customer Success Managers are responsible for helping customers get the most value from a product or service. They work with customers to identify and solve problems. The course User Research and Design may be helpful for Customer Success Managers because it teaches them how to conduct user research and analyze and deliver research results in forms that support customer success.
Technical Writer
Technical Writer
Technical Writers create documentation for technical products. They work with engineers and product managers to create documentation that is clear and easy to understand. The course User Research and Design may be helpful for Technical Writers because it teaches them how to conduct user research and analyze and deliver research results in forms that support technical writing.
Instructional Designer
Instructional Designer
Instructional Designers create and develop educational materials. They work with teachers and other educators to create materials that are effective and engaging. The course User Research and Design may be helpful for Instructional Designers because it teaches them how to conduct user research and analyze and deliver research results in forms that support instructional design.
Recruiter
Recruiter
Recruiters find and hire new employees for companies. They work with hiring managers to identify the needs of the company and then find candidates who meet those needs. The course User Research and Design may be helpful for Recruiters because it teaches them how to conduct user research and analyze and deliver research results in forms that support recruiting.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/zwzl89/user
Reading list
We've selected 38 books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
User Research and Design.
Provides a comprehensive overview of user research methods in the context of human-computer interaction. It covers a wide range of topics, from planning and conducting user studies to analyzing and interpreting data.
Provides a comprehensive overview of user research methods, including planning and conducting user research studies, analyzing data, and reporting findings. It valuable resource for anyone new to user research.
This classic work on design principles provides insights into how to create user-friendly products and interfaces. It must-read for anyone involved in user research and design.
Save
Provides practical guidance on how to conduct user research through observation. It covers topics such as planning and conducting observations, analyzing data, and using observations to improve the user experience.
Provides practical guidance on how to conduct user research, with a focus on usability testing. It great resource for anyone who wants to learn more about how to conduct user research in the real world.
Provides a comprehensive overview of research methods in human-computer interaction. It covers a wide range of topics, including qualitative and quantitative methods, and provides practical guidance on how to design and conduct user research studies.
Save
Provides a practical guide to user experience management, covering topics such as planning, implementing, and measuring user experience programs.
Provides practical advice for user experience professionals who are working alone or in small teams, covering topics such as research, design, and communication.
Save
Provides an overview of the field of interaction design, including the history, theory, and practice of designing interactive systems. It valuable resource for anyone interested in learning more about the design of user interfaces.
Save
Provides a step-by-step guide to interviewing users. It covers topics such as planning and conducting interviews, asking effective questions, and analyzing data.
Provides a practical guide to sketching user experiences. It covers topics such as using sketching to generate ideas, communicate designs, and get feedback from users.
Provides a foundational understanding of the principles of design, with a focus on the design of everyday objects. It valuable resource for anyone interested in learning more about the design of user interfaces.
Practical guide to usability testing, covering everything from planning and conducting tests to analyzing and interpreting data. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about user research.
Save
Explores the role of emotion in design, and how emotions can be used to create more engaging and user-friendly products. It valuable resource for anyone interested in learning more about the emotional side of design.
Save
Introduces the principles of design thinking and provides a step-by-step guide to using design thinking to solve problems and create innovative solutions.
Save
Provides a practical guide to web analytics, covering topics such as data collection, analysis, and interpretation, and how to use this information to improve user experience.
Classic in the field of user experience design. It provides a comprehensive overview of the principles of good design, with a focus on making products that are easy to use and understand.
Save
Provides an overview of design research methods and perspectives. It covers a wide range of topics, from qualitative and quantitative research methods to design ethnography and participatory design. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about design research.
Explores the role of emotion in user experience design. It provides practical guidance on how to design products that are emotionally appealing and engaging.
Save
Comprehensive guide to usability engineering. It covers topics such as planning and conducting usability studies, analyzing data, and making design recommendations.
Provides practical advice on how to conduct user research and design user experiences as a team of one.
Provides a foundational understanding of the principles of user experience design, with a focus on the design of web and mobile applications. It valuable resource for anyone interested in learning more about the design of user interfaces.
Provides a comprehensive overview of information architecture. It covers topics such as organizing information, creating navigation systems, and designing search interfaces.
Save
Provides practical guidance on how to design user interfaces that are usable, enjoyable, and effective. It great resource for anyone who wants to learn more about how to design user interfaces that people love to use.
Provides a framework for understanding how disruptive technologies can lead to the downfall of established companies. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about innovation and technology.
Provides a practical guide to using the lean startup methodology to build successful businesses. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about entrepreneurship and innovation.
Save
Comprehensive guide to interaction design. It covers topics such as designing for different platforms, creating prototypes, and conducting user testing.
Explores the challenges that established companies face when they try to innovate. It provides a framework for understanding how to avoid the innovator's dilemma. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about innovation.
Save
Provides a practical guide to UX strategy. It covers topics such as defining the user experience vision, creating a UX roadmap, and measuring the success of UX initiatives.
Provides a practical guide to web usability, with a focus on the importance of making websites easy to use. It great resource for anyone who wants to learn more about how to design user-friendly websites.
Provides a practical guide to using the value proposition canvas to design and test value propositions. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about business model innovation.
Provides a step-by-step guide to using the sprint process to solve problems and test new ideas. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about design thinking and innovation.
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of UX research. It covers topics such as planning and conducting user research, analyzing data, and using research to make design decisions.
Provides a behind-the-scenes look at the challenges of building a successful business. It covers a wide range of topics, from fundraising to managing employees. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about entrepreneurship.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the field of content strategy, including the principles of content planning, creation, and management. It valuable resource for anyone interested in learning more about the design of user interfaces.
Save
Provides a framework for building successful startups. It covers a wide range of topics, from the importance of vision to the role of competition. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about startups.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the field of information design, including the principles of data visualization, typography, and layout. It valuable resource for anyone interested in learning more about the design of user interfaces.
Save
Provides a framework for getting customers for your startup. It covers a wide range of topics, from marketing to sales. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about startups.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/zwzl89/user
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Institution
University of Minnesota
Instructors
Joseph A Konstan
Loren Terveen
Haiyi Zhu
Lana Yarosh
Dr. Brent Hecht
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