Course Descriptions

This course introduces students to the tools, roles and responsibilities of an interaction designer. Students gain technical knowledge of the setup and maintenance of software and workflows used by the interactive design industry and begin to work with image-making software for static and dynamic media. This course examines the fair use of media and data from both a producer and end-user perspective.

In this course, students will learn the basics of user experience (UX) and UX research and put these to use exploring a variety of projects. Using insight tools such as personas and wireframes, students will learn a collaborative approach to working in this dynamic field.

This course introduces students to the software used to design and prototype digital interfaces and experiences. Students will study methods of visual organization and appropriate use of colour. This course also examines the work produced by industry professionals and their roles/responsibilities. Students practice appropriate and effective group critique techniques.

This course provides students with a thorough understanding of digital typography. Students will study the principles of accessible typography for digital mediums. The evolution of type from the mid-1400s to the present day is discussed, as students examine how the technology of each era influences letterforms. Instruction in design-related software supports the course.

Design thinking is a key component of effective and impactful design. This course examines design thinking and includes concepts of inclusive, respectful and responsible design. Students will apply further user experience research to define human-centred design goals and puts collaboration and creative skills into practice. Students will also review the broader implications of design, including cultural frameworks, Indigenous knowledge and the natural environment.

This course builds on concepts developed in IXD 102. The course will apply the user experience strategy lifecycle. Students will explore human-factor considerations in user experience as well as creating new information architectures through research and testing. Students will also learn how e-commerce principles are applied in user experience. Students will examine stakeholder and project management best practices that will help students prepare for professional practice.

This course focuses on developing advanced skills in the software used to design and prototype digital interfaces and experiences. Students will study critical patterns used in interface design combined with digital accessibility best practices. This course examines design solutions that promote environmental, cultural, social, and economic responsibility.

This course introduces students to HTML, CSS and JavaScript. Students will gain a clear and concise picture of the building blocks of the web, as well as server requirements. The history of the Internet will be also studied. Principles and techniques of search engine optimization (SEO) will be examined. Students will apply their learning through the development of WordPress websites.

This course introduces students to the strategic and creative process of branding. Students will examine key components and principles of design systems for digital products. Students will also explore methods of co-creation, as they complete a work-integrated learning experience.

In this course, students will look beyond the most common screen-based devices (laptop and mobile) and apply user experience (UX) principles to future and emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, voice-activated devices and augmented reality. Students will assess the impact of game theory and apply design thinking to new creative technologies. They will also complete visits to local studios, which will provide students with a solid understanding of the professional landscape of new technologies.

This course introduces students to motion design for screen-based interaction elements and digital storytelling. Students will examine the user experience principles of motion design as well as the social impact of digital storytelling. Students gain technical knowledge in image-making software and coding for dynamic media.

Students are introduced to time-management techniques, project management styles and contract principles for designers. Ethics in design will be covered to give students an opportunity to define an ethical design practice that is inclusive, responsible and embraces diversity. Students will develop business communication skills, self-promotion techniques and complete a mentorship project to gain exposure to professional practice. This course provides students a pathway after graduation and supports career success.

Students will demonstrate an iterative design process through the completion of a self-directed capstone project. Students will apply human-centred design thinking, as a method of problem solving to construct a sustainable design solution that embodies global consciousness, human responsibility, and/or our commitment to the rights of Indigenous peoples and furthering reconciliation. Students are mentored by peers, faculty and interaction design professionals.

In this course, students will develop a digital portfolio, résumé and skills to secure industry employment. Students will complete a work integrated learning (WIL) experience in the interaction design industry, which will enable them to apply classroom theory and skills to employment practices. This course provides the student, faculty and employer with tools to ensure professional conduct and fair assessment.