Clarification details
Updated December 2021. This clarification has been updated to address issues that have arisen from moderation.
Students need to explain the purpose of the outcome and requirements of the end users. They need to identify and explain at least two of the main relevant implications that may apply to the design. This should take place in the early stages of design in order to inform the project as it progresses.
Students need to investigate and apply at least two relevant user experience (UX) methodologies. The list of examples of UX methodologies in Explanatory Note 4 is not exhaustive, and others may apply depending on the context.
A range of designs (at least three) that apply UX methodologies should be generated, modelled and tested to allow a selection of the most appropriate design. Evidence should show the application of earlier researched UX methodologies, rather than relying solely on the likes and dislikes of the learner. This will typically include low fidelity designs being developed initially, working towards a reasonable model of a final design which will be suitable for gaining feedback and suggestions for further development.
Explanation of the appropriateness of the chosen design should be in terms of the purpose of the outcome and requirements of the end users. These should also refer to the relevant implications and the UX methodologies. There is no dedicated clarification document for relevant implications at Level 3. Guidance and definitions are provided in the Level 2 clarification.
Student evidence of modelling and testing design ideas is required. This could include evidence of:
- discussions with the teacher
- trialling ideas with end-users by adapting and applying UX methodologies
- checking users’ responses to the proposed design
- data gained from modelling and user testing.
While the outcome must be digital, it is not required that design development is prepared digitally.
Merit requires students to effectively use data from modelling and user testing to improve the design. Feedback may involve test results from modelling and information from end users. The student needs to evaluate how the chosen design uses UX methodologies and addresses the relevant implications.
Excellence requires a justification of how the developed functional and aesthetic features of the outcome will address the purpose and requirements of the end users. Students also need to justify how the design could be further developed with the choice of UX methodologies used. Students should support all discussion with evidence from tests, trials and consultation with end users.
For Moderation
Assessors will need to ensure that all the prepared evidence, such as mock-up files, online design tools or separate testing documents are accessible to the moderator. When files are password-protected the access settings should be changed appropriately to allow the moderation process to occur.