Teaching User Experience Design in-Context: A Case Study on Immersive Learning with a Playable Case Study Simulation

Abstract This paper explores the potential of using educational simulations, specifically Playable Case Studies (PCS), in Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) courses. We present Cyclops, a PCS developed for an introductory HCI class, as an example of how simulations can provide immersive learning opportunities for students in the field of HCI. The PCS Cyclops places learners in a fictional Virtual Reality game company where they take on the role of a user experience (UX) researcher. Through this simulation, learners experience HCI roles in an authentic workplace context, develop skills in analyzing user testing data, and practice ethical decision making in a low-risk environment. We report on a case study where we deployed and evaluated the use of the Cyclops PCS in an introductory HCI design class. Students reported an improved understanding of the UX profession after completing the PCS, including both the social and technical skills required for the work. They also reported an increased confidence in pursuing careers in HCI/UX. While the realism embedded in the PCS played a key role in fostering a genuine sense of the professional UX context, the paper acknowledges challenges in balancing workplace ambiguity and complexity with the need to provide students with clear structure to complete the simulation. Strategies for improving the PCS are discussed. We demonstrate how PCSs offer a versatile and adaptable educational framework that can be tailored to suit the unique challenges and objectives of HCI/UX as well as different fields.