Human Centered Design Experience

Catalog description

This course features a live problem-solving case project with a real world client. It introduces proven design thinking and project management methodologies while tying theory to practice across the curriculum. Aligned to Principles for Responsible Management Education (PRME), the course requires you to interact with managers of business corporations and explore jointly effective approaches to the ethical management of social, environmental and financial and informational resources. Students will interface with clients on three occasions: (1) at the outset when the client presents the challenge and desired outcomes, (2) at mid-point to provide a status report and ask questions about context, data and expectations; and (3) at the end to present solutions to the client management team. In this course, students represent Duquesne University as professional consultants, and faculty will serve as managing directors of the engagement. With guidance and coaching, students will audit and analyze the client?s internal/external situation, drivers and risks; identify problems and opportunities; evaluate return on investment from alternative courses of action; and recommend solutions for short- and long-term prosperity. Within student teams, individuals will develop skills as project manager, researcher, analyst, writer, speaker and peer coach. Performance evaluation includes 360-degree feedback from the client team, faculty and peers. Lecture, in-person. Offered summer only