Module Details

Module Code: CTRL
Module Title: Modelling for user validation
Title: Modelling for user validation
Module Level:: 6
Credits:: 5
Module Coordinator: Eileen Doyle
Module Author:: Brian Casey
Domains:  
Module Description: The aim of the module is to apply a range of high fidelity and low fidelity prototyping techniques to efficiently gather feedback and more specifically validate the designs. The module also aims to train the learners in the use of computer-assisted prototyping techniques.
 
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this module the learner will be able to:
# Learning Outcome Description
LO1 Design and execute needs finding and validation test plans using a mix of appropriately selected high fi and low fi modeling techniques
LO2 Design and build high fidelity functional and appearance models to validate user needs
LO3 Confidently use the CAD/CAM facilities of the modeling studio to 3D print, laser-cut, and vinyl cut components for use in 3D models with a minimum of supervision.
LO4 Perform measurements and make recordings of the performance of the prototypes in user validation testing and from this data make extrapolations, findings, and proposals for design refinements
Dependencies
Module Recommendations

This is prior learning (or a practical skill) that is recommended before enrolment in this module.
No recommendations listed
Co-requisite Modules
No Co-requisite modules listed
Additional Requisite Information
No Co Requisites listed
 
Indicative Content
Selecting appropriate model
Utilizing information theory and technical standards the module will examine the most effective and efficient model-making techniques to discover the required information. This will examine the role of "works like", "looks like" and "feels like " models and how splitting this functionality can yeild more rapid development times
Model building with a purpose
Building low-fi and high-fi models using the full range of techniques available to a modern design model making studio with the expressed purpose of test and validation
Utilizing the full capabilities of the rapid prototyping facilities
Through carefully selected case studies the learners will become comfortable with the use of 3D printers, laser cutters, vinyl cutters, and other equipment to produce advanced models which would be prohibitively difficult without these techniques.
User testing prototypes
n/a
Module Content & Assessment
Assessment Breakdown%
Project75.00%
Practical25.00%

Assessments

Full Time

No Continuous Assessment
Project
Assessment Type Project % of Total Mark 50
Timing n/a Learning Outcomes 1,4
Non-marked No
Assessment Description
Phase 1:Design a design validation plan utilizing a range of low-fi and high-fi prototypes and produce the prototypes to support this plan. Suitable validation case studies will be provided. Phase 2: Execute this user testing and make the appropriate measurements and extrapolate findings
Assessment Type Project % of Total Mark 25
Timing End-of-Semester Learning Outcomes 2
Non-marked No
Assessment Description
Design and build high fidelity functional and appearance models to validate user needs
Practical
Assessment Type Practical/Skills Evaluation % of Total Mark 25
Timing Week 27 Learning Outcomes 3
Non-marked No
Assessment Description
Demonstrate competence in computer-assisted model making techniques through a series of exercises using CAD/CAM and simple circuit building to generating a high-fidelity physical model
No End of Module Formal Examination
Reassessment Requirement
Exam Board
It is at the discretion of the Examination Board as to what the qualifying criteria are.

SETU Carlow Campus reserves the right to alter the nature and timings of assessment

 

Module Workload

Workload: Full Time
Workload Type Workload Category Contact Type Workload Description Frequency Average Weekly Learner Workload Hours
Lecture Contact No Description Every Week 4.00 4
Total Weekly Contact Hours 4.00
 
Module Resources
Recommended Book Resources
  • Bjarki Hallgrimsson. (2019), Prototyping and Modelmaking for Product Design, 2nd. Laurence King Publishing, p.208, [ISBN: 9781786275110].
This module does not have any article/paper resources
This module does not have any other resources
Discussion Note: