FLAME University

FLAME SUMMER SCHOOL

AN OPPORTUNITY TO EXPERIENCE THE LIBERAL EDUCATION ETHOS

Apply Now

1st July 2024 to 20th July 2024 (2 credits)

Designing Interfaces


About the Program

This course offers a comprehensive introduction to User Interface Design, providing a deep dive into the creation of engaging and functional interfaces for screens and devices. We'll start by exploring how to design with the user in mind, identifying their needs and addressing specific problems. The curriculum is divided into several modules, each focusing on a key aspect of UI design. These include organizing content, mastering various navigation patterns and wayfinding techniques, arranging screen layouts, and understanding the principles of visual style and aesthetics. Additionally, practical skills in prototyping with Figma and the basics of user testing will be covered.

While this foundation course emphasizes the intricacies of interface creation rather than the broader design process, it remains highly interactive and hands-on. Students will gain proficiency in tools like Figma and various generative AI technologies, equipping them to craft compelling user interfaces.


Course Objectives

  • Explore User-Centric Design Approaches: Learn the principles of user-centric design, emphasizing the importance of understanding user needs and behaviors in creating effective interfaces.
  • Effective Content Organization and Navigation: Learn organizing digital content, developing intuitive navigation systems, and applying wayfinding techniques to enhance user experience.
  • Skills in Visual Design and Aesthetics: Learn the fundamentals of visual style, layout, and aesthetics, to create visually appealing and functional user interfaces.
  • Prototyping and User Testing Techniques: Learn the use of prototyping tools like Figma and the basics of user testing, to refine user interfaces effectively.
  • Generative AI Tools in Design Processes: Familiarity with the application of generative AI technologies in interface design, fostering innovation and efficiency in design approaches.

Faculty

Prof. Vandana Wekhande

Visiting Faculty, FLAME University.

Prof. Vandana Wekhande is a motivated educator with 25 years of experience in education and software development. Prof. Wekhande, a software engineer and post-graduate (MS in Comp Science) from New Hampshire University, NH, USA, worked as a software developer for 12 years in India and the USA before joining academia.

Prof. Wekhande worked as an Associate Professor at the National Institute of Fashion Technology, Mumbai, in the Fashion Communication department. Her expertise is in the areas of web design, UI/UX design, interface design, design thinking, graphics design, and AR/VR design. During her tenure at NIFT, she taught, guided, and mentored undergraduate and postgraduate students. She was actively involved in curriculum development at NIFT.

Prof. Wekhande has been conducting design thinking, interface design, and innovation design workshops and modules at Sardar Patel Institute of Technology (SPIT) Mumbai, NMIMS Mumbai, and NIFT Mumbai.