Master of Design (Interaction Design)

PolyU Design

The Interaction Design specialism is directed at students with a passion for people and technology, who have curiosity about the future and want to shape how information is accessed and used, how environments might change based on need, or how embedded information in products support use. Those with a Bachelor’s degree in design (visual communication, product, digital media, or environmental design), communication, information technology, or even psychology may find interaction design to be the next step in their professional development.

Aims

This specialism seeks to enhance human ability and life through the design of innovative, interactive and experiential ideas, based on a synthesis of human thought patterns and habits with technical means. A combination of theory, planning strategies, research, and technical skills provide the foundation for workshops that explore emerging aspects of interaction design, based on human needs and pleasures as well as technological development.

Objectives

This specialism seeks to join theory and action by:

• putting people first in the people/technology equation explore human-centeredness
• understanding active communication processes on which interactivity is built
• learning methods for analysis and construction of interaction design
• working across communication technology, product interface, and service systems
• focusing on one of the above as an alternative focus
• developing a holistic approach to human-centered interaction that includes problem or opportunity identification, research, prototyping and execution.

Programme structure

The specialism is structured by a combination of intensively taught short courses that directly support a workshop investigation. Workshops take various forms from individual to team work, from self-initiated projects to externally sponsored projects. A range of electives are available to tailor the experience to individual interests. Some classes meet during weekends and evenings. The expectation is that the student is fully committed to the programme and works in the studio environment. The programme concludes with a demonstration project that unites: research, creative exploration, user understanding, and prototype testing toward a solution. Graduation requires the successful completion of 36 credits.

Common Core Subjects (compulsory) (1 credits)

• Specialism Core Subjects (compulsory) (29 credits)
• Theory/Method Subjects (12 credits)

Workshop Subjects (17 credits)

Electives (6 credits)