Practice A2.1 User-centred research methods with authentic IB Design Technology (First Exam 2027) exam questions for both SL and HL students. This question bank mirrors Paper 1, 2, 3 structure, covering key topics like materials and processes, product design, and sustainability. Get instant solutions, detailed explanations, and build exam confidence with questions in the style of IB examiners.
Paper
Level
Question 1
SL & HLPaper 1
Which of the following characteristics is most essential to an effective UCD team?
Question 2
SL & HLPaper 2
A health-tech startup is developing a smart wearable wristband aimed at elderly users. The device includes emergency alert features, real-time heart rate monitoring, fall detection, and GPS tracking. To ensure the product meets the needs of this specific target user group, the company applies user-centred design principles throughout the development process. See Figures 1, 2, and 3.
1.[2]
i.) Identify two key user needs that designers must consider when developing smart wearable technology for elderly users.
2.[2]
ii.) Outline two advantages of using observation as a research method in the early stages of the product development process.
3.[3]
The design team created elderly personas as part of their UCD process, as shown in Figure 2.
Explain how using a primary persona can help guide the design of the wristband in Figure 1.
4.[4]
The design team also established focus group discussions with elderly participants to aid their design processes.
Explain how the team in Figure 3 can ensure that feedback from a focus group is reliable and representative of the wider user population.
5.[6]
Discuss the potential benefits and limitations of involving users at all five stages of the UCD process, such as those shown in Figures 2 and 3.
Question 3
SL & HLPaper 2
1.[2]
Define the term “user-centred design” (UCD) and state one reason why it is important in product development.
Question 4
SL & HLPaper 2
An inclusive design team is developing a self-service airport check-in kiosk to improve accessibility for passengers with diverse needs. The team uses user-centred design (UCD) principles to ensure the kiosk is intuitive, accessible, and efficient. They conduct observations in airports, build user personas, and test prototypes with different user groups. See Figures 1, 2, and 3.
1.[2]
i.) Identify two stakeholders, other than the end user, who would be involved in the development of the check-in kiosk shown in Figure 1.
2.[2]
ii.) Outline two limitations of using only online surveys to gather user feedback for this product.
3.[3]
The design team wants to improve accessibility for passengers with various needs, and has a vision for an adjustable check-in kiosk. [3]
Explain how the team can apply empathy when designing for the user in Figure 2.
4.[4]
To deliver a product for those with accessibility needs, the design team creates a user journey map as seen in Figure 3.
Explain how the user journey map shown in Figure 3 helps designers improve the kiosk experience.
5.[6]
Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of using multidisciplinary teams in the user-centred design of the airport kiosk.
6.[3]
Using an example, explain how scenario-building can help designers create a better solution for users with temporary disabilities (e.g. broken arm).
Question 5
SL & HLPaper 1
Which of the following best describes a user-centred research method?
Question 6
SL & HLPaper 1
What does this image of a designer interviewing a user in their home represent in the UCD process?
Question 7
SL & HLPaper 1
Which technique is least relevant during user-centred research?
Question 8
SL & HLPaper 1
What does the following reflect in the context of user-centred design?
Question 9
SL & HLPaper 2
Figure 2: A project leader for a nonprofit organization conducting a face-to-face interview with a visually impaired resident regarding the accessibility features of a new community bench.
1.[3]
Explain why interviews are a valuable tool in a user-centred design approach for social initiatives.
Question 10
SL & HLPaper 2
Transport for London (TfL) is designing digital interfaces for bus stops after research showed commuters want real-time arrival information, struggle with route planning, and need accessibility features. Research must understand diverse commuter needs including tourists, elderly users, people with disabilities, and non-native speakers.
1.[2]
State what is meant by accessibility research and give one example of an accessibility consideration relevant to digital interfaces at bus stops.
2.[4]
Describe how intercept surveys at bus stops could provide insights into commuter information needs and behaviours.
3.[6]
Analyse how scenario-based research could help understand how different user groups interact with public transit information systems.
4.[8]
Evaluate the importance of inclusive research practices when designing for diverse urban populations.