Reflection: Taking an Interface Design module over Zoom for a semester
As with most personal reflections may go, 2020 has been unlike any other usual years. Due to the global pandemic, our lives are forced into a new form of normalcy. To say it is partially temporary may be an understatement. Many of us are plunged into using technology — almost as a substitute for face-to-face interactions and meetings. School is no exception.
During my last semester in University, I had to take an Interface Design module — traditionally held in classrooms and labs, online (on Mondays) for 13 weeks. Here’s how it went.
Rise and shine when the alarm rings at 7.15am (and after a couple of snoozes) in the morning . Roll out of bed, wash up and brew some fresh espresso using my favourite Moka pot. Make some omelettes, fry some sausages and toast some bread in the oven for breakfast. Log on to the designated Zoom room at 8.55am for class (it starts at 9am). Fast forward 3 hours later, class is over. Repeat this for 13 weeks.
Typically, the Professor would give a lecture for about 2/3 to the full duration of the class. Occasional engagement is done via the Zoom chatroom where a few brave souls took the courage to respond, via text. “I feel like I’m talking to myself” is a common phrase we hear. (I’m sorry Professor! We were listening. We were just a tad bit too shy to unmute ourselves.) Group meetings were done online too, and extended group discussions were done via group chats (in the preferred Social Messaging platform).
Key takeaways from the module
Quote on design:
“You see, a great designer starts with the whys. She conveys the principles behind her thinking and leaves you feeling like you understand the core values from which all her design decisions flow.”
— Julie Zhuo
(A Matter of Principle, Surfacing the core truths in every design)
- Basic elements of visual design and the principles of graphic design serve as a guide for us to improve our eye for design-aesthetics
- Iterations based on user feedback is key
- Do not assume we, as designers, understand and know what our consumers want (even if we are part of the target audience). Do our research and gather data.
- Every team member’s contribution is valuable! The sum of the parts is what makes the design whole.
- Have fun with the design, and the product you are working on!
Final words to sum up the experience
While I enjoy the convenience and perks of taking a class from home, I do miss the synergy one gets from the human interaction in class. Especially for a design-based module. Despite the difference in how the classes are conducted, I do think the live online lectures were effective. Perhaps, this is the transition phase and foreshadowing of how future education will be conducted.
