User Research Methods

About

User Research Methods is a comprehensive course that equips learners with essential techniques for understanding users, identifying design opportunities, and solving complex problems in human-centered design. Through systematic exploration of both qualitative and quantitative research methods—including contextual inquiry, ethnographic observation, participatory design, and statistical analysis—students will learn to gather, analyze, and synthesize user insights effectively. The course emphasizes understanding emotional and cultural dimensions of user experience, sensorial modalities, cognitive processes, and practical application of research tools such as empathy mapping, personas, scenario building, and the AEIOU framework. By the end of this course, participants will be proficient in conducting rigorous user research that informs evidence-based design decisions and drives innovation in products, services, and systems.

Intended audience: This course is designed for undergraduate and postgraduate students in Design, Human-Computer Interaction, Computer Science, Psychology, and related disciplines. It is also suitable for UX/UI professionals, product designers, product managers, researchers, and anyone involved in human-centered design and product development who wants to strengthen their user research skills.

Prerequisites: Basic understanding of design principles and research methodology is helpful but not mandatory. Familiarity with qualitative and quantitative research concepts is beneficial. No programming knowledge is required. Students should have curiosity about human behavior and user-centered design.