DXB212 Tangible Interaction Design


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Unit Outline: Semester 2 2026, Kelvin Grove, Internal

Unit code:DXB212
Credit points:12
Pre-requisite:DXB211 or IFB104
Assumed Knowledge:

A basic knowledge of the principles of computer programming, and computational processes and techniques is assumed knowledge

Coordinator:Rich Evans | richard.evans@qut.edu.au
Disclaimer - Offer of some units is subject to viability, and information in these Unit Outlines is subject to change prior to commencement of the teaching period.

Overview

This unit provides an in-depth exploration of tangible interaction design through the creation of an advanced prototyping project. It integrates theoretical frameworks with hands-on practice, focusing on the design of computational and interactive prototypes that engage users through tangible and embodied interaction. You will develop proficiency in rapid prototyping techniques, producing both low-fidelity and high-fidelity prototypes, using a variety of design and fabrication methods.

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this unit you will be able to:

  1. Apply theoretical and technical design-related knowledge of the field of tangible interaction design in relation to implications for design concept development for specific design contexts.
  2. Utilise prototyping techniques and technologies to implement and refine evaluate design prototypes.
  3. Independently develop and manage a self-directed line of enquiry through a tangible interaction design research process to investigate a specific question or context.

Content

This unit focuses on content related to the design and realisation of tangible interaction design, through design methods and design fabrication processes. You will learn how to develop abstract concepts in combination with the practical skills and techniques required to design and build physical  prototypes (low-fidelity and high-fidelity) to specific technical requirements that are aligned with design industry practices.

Learning Approaches

This unit takes a practical, hands-on approach to learning the theory and design methods underpinning tangible interaction design. You will engage with a range of lecture materials, supported by selected readings and case studies, designed to complement your in-class prototyping activities. Throughout the unit, you will receive feedback and guidance from teaching staff to support your design development.

Feedback on Learning and Assessment

Feedback in this unit is provided to you in following ways:
 
  • Canvas criteria sheets
  • Canvas general comments
  • Peer and tutor feedback

You will engage in critique sessions where you, your peers, and academic staff will discuss issues arising in the design and development of your prototypes. You will also be required to attend progress reviews with teaching staff. These reviews will require you to present your progress towards the summative assessment items, and will provide you with an avenue for dialogue with teaching staff and feedback on your work.

Assessment

Overview

Assessment in this unit focuses on the completion of a single design project, and is assessed at two stages.

Unit Grading Scheme

7- point scale

Assessment Tasks

Assessment: Design Research Proposal

You will research the field of interaction design to develop a design proposal for a tangible interaction prototype around a defined brief. You must present an annotated infographic, supported by design research, and a low-fidelity, physical prototype, which embodies the proposal in a tangible form.

The late submission period does not apply, and no assignment extensions are available.

Weight: 40
Individual/Group: Individual
Due (indicative): Week 5
Related Unit learning outcomes: 1, 2

Assessment: Tangible Prototype Project

You will design and prototype a tangible interaction project in response to a defined design brief. You will plan and run a tangible design process to develop a working experience prototype and evaluate this within a context of use, to investigate a design research question in relation to the design brief. You will analyse findings from your evaluation to draw implications for design and apply these to refine your design prototype. You will reflect on your design process and draw-out key learnings for the design of tangible interactions, relevant to design research and practice in the field.
 
This assignment is eligible for the 48-hour late submission period and assignment extensions.
Weight: 60
Individual/Group: Individual
Due (indicative): Week 13
Related Unit learning outcomes: 2, 3

Academic Integrity

Academic integrity is a commitment to undertaking academic work and assessment in a manner that is ethical, fair, honest, respectful and accountable.

The Academic Integrity Policy sets out the range of conduct that can be a failure to maintain the standards of academic integrity. This includes, cheating in exams, plagiarism, self-plagiarism, collusion and contract cheating. It also includes providing fraudulent or altered documentation in support of an academic concession application, for example an assignment extension or a deferred exam.

You are encouraged to make use of QUT’s learning support services, resources and tools to assure the academic integrity of your assessment. This includes the use of text matching software that may be available to assist with self-assessing your academic integrity as part of the assessment submission process.

Breaching QUT’s Academic Integrity Policy or engaging in conduct that may defeat or compromise the purpose of assessment can lead to a finding of student misconduct (Code of Conduct – Student) and result in the imposition of penalties under the Management of Student Misconduct Policy, ranging from a grade reduction to exclusion from QUT.

Requirements to Study

Requirements

All students and staff who access campus buildings and facilities are required to complete the Tier 1 General Health and Safety Induction. This must be completed online.

Costs

Design Studio materials and resources for artefact creation for assessment items.

Resources

A full list of resources / materials for this unit will be provided on the Canvas site.

Resource Materials

Other

To enable your full participation in the virtual learning environment, for example, participating in online activities and engaging with online learning materials, you will need access to a reliable computer with an internet connection, webcam, headset and microphone, as well as a learning environment where you are able to fully participate undisturbed when required.

Risk Assessment Statement

Where substantial computer-based work is required, particularly in the case of fully online students, you are recommended to take regular rest breaks when engaging in prolonged computer-based work, and ensure that your workstation is set up for optimal comfort to prevent strain or injury.

Further information can be found on the unit Canvas site. 

Course Learning Outcomes

This unit is designed to support your development of the following course/study area learning outcomes.

DE43 Bachelor of Design

  1. Demonstrate theoretical and technical design knowledge, synthesising methods and theories of design in dynamic and evolving contexts.
    Relates to: ULO1, Design Research Proposal
  2. Evaluate and translate conceptual and critical design methodologies and tools and transfer to new and complex challenges.
    Relates to: ULO2, ULO3, Design Research Proposal, Tangible Prototype Project
  3. Demonstrate technical proficiencies to undertake rigorous and iterative design experimentation that considers participatory and co-creation design processes.
    Relates to: ULO2, Design Research Proposal, Tangible Prototype Project
  4. Communicate coherently, independently and/or collaboratively using a range of media to convey and share design knowledge and ideas to diverse audiences in a range of contexts.
    Relates to: ULO2, Design Research Proposal, Tangible Prototype Project
  5. Use transdisciplinary methods to effectively work in diverse teams to address real-world challenges.
    Relates to: ULO3, Tangible Prototype Project
  6. Independently demonstrate an ethical, sustainable and holistic approach to design, that critically considers impact.
    Relates to: ULO3, Tangible Prototype Project

DE45 Bachelor of Design - International

  1. Demonstrate theoretical and technical design knowledge, synthesising methods and theories of design in dynamic and evolving contexts.
    Relates to: ULO1, Design Research Proposal
  2. Evaluate and translate conceptual and critical design methodologies and tools and transfer to new and complex challenges.
    Relates to: ULO2, ULO3, Design Research Proposal, Tangible Prototype Project
  3. Demonstrate technical proficiencies to undertake rigorous and iterative design experimentation that considers participatory and co-creation design processes.
    Relates to: ULO2, Design Research Proposal, Tangible Prototype Project
  4. Communicate coherently, independently and/or collaboratively using a range of media to convey and share design knowledge and ideas to diverse audiences in a range of contexts.
    Relates to: ULO2, Design Research Proposal, Tangible Prototype Project
  5. Use transdisciplinary methods to effectively work in diverse teams to address real-world challenges.
    Relates to: ULO3, Tangible Prototype Project
  6. Independently demonstrate an ethical, sustainable and holistic approach to design, that critically considers impact.
    Relates to: ULO3, Tangible Prototype Project

KK43 Bachelor of Creative Industries

  1. Demonstrate broad and coherent theoretical and practical knowledge required for creative enterprise, career development and interdisciplinary collaborations, supported by depth in at least one creative disciplinary area.
    Relates to: ULO1, Design Research Proposal
  2. Demonstrate well-developed cognitive and ideation skills to identify, analyse and evaluate opportunities to address authentic complex problems.
    Relates to: ULO2, ULO3, Design Research Proposal, Tangible Prototype Project
  3. Demonstrate technical expertise to support skills and knowledge within the Creative Industries.
    Relates to: ULO2, Design Research Proposal, Tangible Prototype Project
  4. Communicate effectively in a range of forms across multiple media modes, for sharing and disseminating knowledge, skills and ideas, and collaborative practice and navigation of social networks.
    Relates to: ULO2, Design Research Proposal, Tangible Prototype Project
  5. Apply and adapt creative disciplinary knowledge and skills with agility in a range of industry, community and intercultural contexts.
    Relates to: ULO3, Tangible Prototype Project
  6. Practise self-management of career and learning with enterprise and an entrepreneurial outlook, including the building of personal and professional relationships and partnerships.
    Relates to: ULO3, Tangible Prototype Project