A human-centred design approach to student success in a first-year high impact module

Abstract

[EN] The success of students in the first year is an important concern for higher education institutions globally. Although much is known about the factors that impact on student success, not many authors have considered how to take such factors into account in the design of a module. In this study we report on a human-centred approach to curriculum design of a first year module in Education. Working from the perspective of the “typical first year student” as a proto-persona, we redesigned the learning management system interface, assessment plan, and support strategies offered to students. We report on students’ experiences of the module in terms of these three themes and discuss the implications for using human-centred design approach as a pedagogical tool and discuss ideas for further research.