Participants will learn how to use user research techniques to identify individuals’ needs and contextual state, which will then inform the design of interventions for digital health solutions. From a method perspective, we will discuss how to combine design research with computational methods for a data-driven elicitation of user requirements. As a theoretical foundation, participants will learn how Design Theory and behavioral theories (e.g., Nudge) can support the creation of just-in-time interventions that provide the right type (or amount) of support, at the right time.

For this course, the main mode of instruction is in-person teaching in the classroom.

1. Comprehend how to combine design research and computational methods for data-driven elicitation of user requirements for digital health applications. 
2. Understand the anatomy of a health intervention in the context of just-in-time digital health applications.
3. Learn how design theories and behavioral theories can inform the design of digital health interventions.   
4. Conduct fieldwork and apply user research techniques to address a healthcare challenge that is relevant to society.
5. Experience how collaborative reflections for creativity-driven engineering projects are performed.

Location: E-School & D-School, Campus II

ECTS: 6

Course language: English

Maximum number of participants: 15

Lecturer: Dr. Danielly de Paula

Guest Speakers 

Join Vittoria Brolis and Gaia Salizzoni from Hale as they delve into their journey of crafting a user-centric digital health solution tailored to women’s health. Learn about their dedicated mission to bridge the gender health disparity. Slides. 

Hear from Nina Löwen and Jade Stephens from HelloBetter on their user research methodology and principles that have placed them at the forefront of digital therapeutics in Europe, having six registered DiGAs. Slides.

Lecture Slides

> Welcome & Foundations

> 1.1 Motivation for Digital Health Apps

> Module 01 -  

> 1.2 The mechanisms of a digital health intervention

> 1.3 The importance of human-centered design/design thinking

> Module 02 - Designing Interventions for Digital Health Apps

> 2.1 - Understanding and applying user research techniques

> 2.2 - Behavioural change techniques

> 2.3 - The dynamics of an individual’s context and internal state
> Module 03 - Evaluating Digital Health Interventions & App