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    Competition · Virtual

    Human-Centered Technology Design Challenge

    Most digital products fail on people, not technology. Research a real problem, then design something usable.

    Saint Louis University
    Apply Now!Free to apply
    Human-Centered Technology Design Challenge

    Time commitment

    6–8 hours a week over four weeks

    Format

    Competition · Virtual

    Fee

    Free to apply

    Apply by

    19 Sep 2026

    Team size

    1–3

    Rounds

    1

    Many digital products fail not because of poor technology but because they ignore the people using them. You identify a real-world problem, conduct user research, and design a solution that balances functionality with usability and ethical considerations. The process is iterative and requires constant refinement based on what you learn.

    During the challenge, you will

    • Conduct user research and define personas
    • Identify behavioral patterns and pain points
    • Design and iterate a user-centered solution
    • Evaluate usability and ethical considerations

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Do I need design software or UX experience?+

    No. The challenge is about the research and the reasoning, personas, behavioral patterns, pain points, ethical trade-offs. You can present a solution as sketches and rationale.

    How is it judged?+

    A single round, assessed on the quality of your user research, the fit between problem and solution, and how well you handled usability and ethical considerations.

    What actually happens in the first week?+

    Day one you're placed in a team and given the brief, the materials and a named mentor. By the end of week one you'll have agreed how your team works together and produced your first deliverable. You'll know what's expected of you, and when, before you start.

    My teammates will be in other time zones. How does that work?+

    Teams are grouped into compatible time zones wherever numbers allow, and the work is built to be done asynchronously, shared documents, recorded updates, and a small number of live checkpoints scheduled with your team.

    Most learners tell us the global team was the best part. It's also the part that needs the most coordination, so we plan for it rather than leaving it to chance.

    Do I need experience to apply?+

    No. These are entry points, not tests, the tools are taught as part of the program. Around a quarter of learners tell us they used a tool for the first time here.

    Is it really free?+

    Yes. No application fee, no participation fee, and no charge for your certificate or badge. Programs are funded by the sponsoring university or partner organization.

    Is this paid work, and does it lead to a job?+

    It isn't paid employment and it doesn't guarantee a job. What it produces is a portfolio piece and a Skills Track Record, evidence of what you did, assessed through your work and your team's feedback, that you can show any employer.

    Can I take more than one?+

    Yes, and many people do, around one in ten learners come back for a second. Trainee level is the usual starting point, with Associate level as the step up.

    What do I get at the end?+

    A verified digital badge, a certificate of completion, and a Skills Track Record listing the capabilities you demonstrated. Associate-level programs also carry a letter of recommendation.