COMM 4400

Qualitative User Research

Course Description

Course information provided by the 2026-2027 Catalog.

This upper-level course provides an in-depth understanding of and experience with advanced concepts and techniques for researching, ideating, critiquing, designing, and evaluating interactive technologies intended for people to use and incorporate in their lives. The course focuses on advanced qualitative methods for user research and design. We will delve into the theoretical and conceptual aspects of each method, and learn to apply them in the technology design process. The course involves readings, classroom discussions and hands-on activities, and a semester-long project.

Prerequisites INFO 3450 or COMM 3450 or INFO 5355 or DEA 2730 or permission of instructor.

Enrollment Information Priority given to: Communication majors and Information Science juniors and seniors during pre-enrollment; remaining seats open to others during the add period.

Distribution Requirements (DLG-AG)

Last 4 Terms Offered 2026SP, 2025SP, 2024SP, 2023SP

Learning Outcomes

• Articulate and critique advanced qualitative human-computer interaction research and design theories and methods.
• Select the appropriate qualitative user research method given specific research and design contexts.
• Develop, make decisions about, carry out, and draw insights and design recommendations from qualitative user research methods.
• Build and apply teamwork collaboration skills.

View Enrollment Information