Reform of the University Curriculum in Usability: A Case Study Implementing an Integrative Approach

Abstract

User-centricity and usability are a premise of digitalization, a current trend for business model innovation based on advanced digital technologies. The article addresses a gap in the literature, in which descriptions of the cases of updating university curricula in usability are lacking. This gap also exists in the practice. The study uses the example of a project for revising the content of usability courses at the University of Turku as a case. The research objective is to explore an integrative approach to usability education. For this, we consider the data collected via interviews with the faculty teaching usability subjects. Thematic analysis is applied to examine the interview outcomes. Recommendations as to updating usability curricula are provided.

Understanding student perceptions of social computing and online tools to enhance learning

“…Educators, therefore, need to select technological tools that can easily be used by students to foster collaborative learning and assist them in making connections to real-life situations [ 2 , 4 , 25 ]. Doing this will ensure that students do not experience technological anxiety [ 9 ] and support their learning in line with their needs and preferences [ 8 ].…”

“…For instance, technological landscapes and functionalities are constantly changing, along with the characteristics and needs of users. Consequently, this demands that educators are able and willing to update content regularly [ 8 ]. It is also stated that non-user-friendly services may hamper the functionality of social computing applications and create privacy issues [ 9 ].…”

“…Doing this, and having adequate knowledge about students’ preferences, will assist educators in effectively deploying social computing tools using appropriate pedagogies for stimulating students’ curiosity and motivation, thereby positively impacting their learning. As reported, understanding users’ needs and the capacity to utilize digital tools for achieving desired outcomes is essential for the effective design and deployment of devices [ 8 ]. The literature also indicates that effective digitization goes beyond technological tool changes and utilization; efforts must focus on the relationships between the devices and use factors for effective deployment [ 6 ].…”

Evaluating a Multi-Component Classroom Intervention to Teach Accessibility in Higher Education: A Case Study With Persona Cards

“…Educational programs that emphasize accessibility in technology design and development underscore the significance of inclusive design, with empathy playing a 1 The intervention components and assessment instruments are available at http://tinyurl.com/TEACH-ACCESSIBILITY pivotal role in inspiring students to delve deeper into the subject [14]. By incorporating empathy into design and development practices, technologists can gain a profound understanding of the needs of people with disabilities and their interaction contexts.…”

“…The intervention includes a lecture on accessibility, an interview with a person with a disability, activities using the kit of persona cards, and the evaluation of the activities through individual assignments and a group project, in addition to personal reflections. The components of the intervention are available for reuse and extension to faculty interested in using our materials in their courses 1 . This paper focuses on implementing and discussing an intervention that aims to build empathy in college students so that they can learn about accessibility and apply it in practice.…”