Ideation + Prototyping for Human-Centred Design Micro-Credential

Building on existing collaborative relationships between OCAD University and the Universities' industry partners, the Human-Centred Design Micro-Credential Series focuses on key skills in areas of product design and development. This Micro-Credential is developed in collaboration with Myant Inc. and supported by eCampus Ontario.

OCAD U conducted over 30 user interviews with companies working in the start-up space. This market research revealed an explicit need for this specialized training. The challenge in identifying workers with these skills is hindering the development and success of their businesses. The key to the growth of any business in the consumer product space is the ability to ensure these products are effectively designed to meet the needs of real people. The application of these skills to multiple industry contexts will be informed by an understanding of equity, decolonization, diversity, and inclusivity.

Ideation + Prototyping is the second micro-credential in the Human-Centred Design Series. This Micro-Credential consists of one intensive course that builds on the observations and research gathered in the Empathy + Social Insight for Human-Centred Design Micro-Credential. Participants will develop a digital or physical prototype in response to the complex challenges and opportunities at the intersection of design, technology, and social theory.

Foundational Knowledge:

• Ability to describe and embed in design principles of why, where, and how to use these skills
• Ability to describe and embed the cycle of user research to iterate/validate ideas
• Ability to describe and embed iterative design around constraints

Depth of Learning Skills:

• Create storyboards, flows, visual design
• Plan for inclusive and accessible design
• Present design concepts to the team, then discussing and integrating feedback
• Conduct user testing, collect feedback, apply new findings to update assumptions
• Transversal (Cross-domain) Attitudes and Skills
• Trans-disciplinary collaboration to co-create a single design
• Design thinking
• Inclusive and accessible practices and articulation of their value
• Emotional Intelligence to inform user-focused design
• Iterative problem solving

This Micro-Credential will be delivered online and requires a minimum of 20-30 hours of commitment with readings, exercises, and application.

Note: Check with the institution regarding start/end dates, prices, and delivery method. These may vary according to program, section, and/or semester.