Empowering tomorrow's entrepreneurs: a teaching delivery approach in UX to foster innovation

In an increasingly complex and interconnected world that faces global challenges such as climate change, social inequality, and technological disruption, the need for systemic change and innovative solutions has never been greater. Traditional approaches to education emphasize finding quick solutions; however, tackling these 'wicked problems' requires a different approach.

The iterative approach to designing the teaching and content delivery of the UX module integrates a problem-focused, human-centred, and planet-centric mindset. This teaching delivery approach also incorporates a business viewpoint, emphasizing the importance of understanding market and industry needs, user preferences, and the entrepreneurial mindset required to turn ideas into viable solutions.

The adopted teaching approach builds foundational skills in entrepreneurship, focusing on key areas including active listening, developed through research methods; creativity and prioritization, enhanced by designing and prototyping; leadership and communication, fostered through teamwork and presentations; and resilience and critical thinking, strengthened by critiques and evaluations. Additionally, introducing a human-centric and planet-centric approach shifts learners towards a mindset that explores challenges by understanding the wider ecosystem.

The latest implementation of industry engagement experiments through expert reviews and successful internship placements will be discussed. These initiatives have been aimed at bridging the gap between academia and industry and preparing students for successful careers in the ever-evolving fields of UX design and entrepreneurship.

The oral presentation will outline guidelines for designing engaging, interactive classroom activities, demonstrating how these activities help students become better problem solvers, creative thinkers, and successful entrepreneurs. The teaching team will share perspectives and observations on the positive changes seen in students, including a shift from grade-centered to development-focused learning, increased awareness of global issues, improved business acumen, and a stronger commitment to creating positive change. Moreover, there will be a focus on the recent increased enthusiasm of students towards participating in competitions and engaging with entrepreneurship programs.

Future iterations of delivering the UX curriculum will focus on the learnings and insights of the teaching team, emphasizing the need to support student projects through close involvement with industry practitioners. Initiatives such as job shadowing, design studio visits, design critiques, capstone projects, pitch days, and internship placements will be highlighted to provide students with valuable real-world experience and industry insights.

In conclusion, this presentation underscores the importance of adopting an innovative, problem-focused, and business-centric approach in UX education. By nurturing a human-centric and planet-centric mindset and providing students with practical skills and industry exposure, they can be empowered to become the change-makers of tomorrow, ready to tackle global challenges and contribute to a more sustainable and equitable future.