Human-Centred Design

Unit code: NIT2003 | Study level: Undergraduate
Credit points
12
(Generally, 1 credit = 10 hours of classes and independent study.)
Location
Footscray Park
Online Real Time
VU Brisbane
VU Sydney
Prerequisites
NIT1101 - Web Development and CMS; or
NIT1102 - Introduction to Programming
(Or equivalent to be determined by unit coordinator)
Overview
Enquire

Overview

In this unit, you will explore the key concepts of user interface (UI) design and prototyping, with a focus on integrating AI-assisted workflows to boost creativity and efficiency. You will apply user-centred design methodologies to create intuitive, visually appealing, and high-performance interfaces for web and mobile platforms. You are expected to leverage AI-powered design tools to streamline the development process and engage in collaborative workflows that include version control, feedback loops, and usability testing. By the end of the unit, you will be able to design, prototype, evaluate, and communicate UI artefacts—preparing you for roles in UX/UI design.

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:

  1. Critically assess user needs, design principles, and industry trends to inform user-centred UI solutions for web and mobile applications
  2. Design wireframes, prototypes, and interactive mock-ups using human-centered design methodologies, usability heuristics, and accessibility standards.
  3. Integrate AI-assisted tools into UI design processes to enhance efficiency and iterative development.
  4. Evaluate UI designs through usability testing, performance metrics, and stakeholder feedback to refine and improve user experiences individually and as part of a team.
  5. Justify design decisions and outcomes using iterative development techniques and collaborative version control.

Assessment

For Melbourne campuses

Assessment type: Case Study
|
Grade: 20%
UX design case study with verified live interaction.
Assessment type: Assignment
|
Grade: 50%
Wireframing and prototyping (Group) with demonstration, presentation and oral Q&A.
Assessment type: Report
|
Grade: 30%
Usability testing and UI evaluation (Group).

Case Study: Students apply concepts to unpredictable data science scenarios. Responses are evaluated based on reasoning, method selection, and outcome justification, with an in-class component or oral defence verifying understanding.

Assignment: Includes structured milestone reviews and in-class progress checks. Individual contributions are logged, validated, and justified through recorded peer review or demonstration to ensure authenticity. Presentation will be conducted and the project will be verified by oral Q&A.

Required reading

Selected readings are provided on VU Collaborate.

As part of a course

This unit is studied as part of the following course(s):

Bachelor of Data Science
NBDS | Bachelor degree | Duration: 3 years

Refer to the course page for information on how to apply for the course. VU takes care to ensure the accuracy of this unit information, but reserves the right to change or withdraw courses offered at any time. Please check that unit information is current with the Student Contact Centre.

Search for units, majors & minors