User-Centred Design: Experiences from Toolbox-Based Learning

This doctoral research delves into the domain of User-Centered-Design (UCD) skills acquisition among software engineering and computer science students and early professionals. Ground the literature, it addresses the challenges faced by novices in understanding complex problems and empathising with diverse user groups. The proposed publications address structured "toolboxes" comprising various UCD methods tailored to different demographics and design contexts. Through a mixed-methods approach, incorporating qualitative and quantitative data collection methods and iterative process optimisation based on student feedback, the study aims to explore the experiences, benefits, and challenges associated with toolbox-based learning of UCD. Notably, the research has progressed with the dissemination of findings through scholarly publications, showcasing the evolution and application of these toolboxes in educational and professional settings. Four publications detail the iterative refinement and application of the toolboxes proposed. The final dissertation is set to offer insights into UCD skill acquisition and application across diverse educational and professional contexts.