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Course syllabus - Digital and Human-Centered Technology

Scope

7.5 credits

Course code

MTA202

Valid from

Autumn semester 2026

Education level

First cycle

Progressive Specialisation

G1F (First cycle, has less than 60 credits in first-cycle course/s as entry requirements)

Main area(s)

Product and Process Development

Organisation

Department of Engineering Sciences

Ratified

2025-12-19

Literature lists

Course literature is preliminary up to 8 weeks before course start. Course literature can be valid over several semesters.

Objectives

Integration of digital tools, data-driven design, and human-centered principles to develop intelligent, sustainable, and user-focused mechanical systems.

Learning outcomes

After completion of the course, the student shall be able to:

  1. Describe key digital technologies and human-centered design principles relevant to mechanical systems.
  2. Explain the relationships between human needs, system performance, sustainability, and digital feedback.
  3. Integrate sensor data and modeling into mechanical designs using digital tools.
  4. Compare design solutions based on ethical, environmental, and human-centered criteria.
  5. Design and prototype a connected mechanical system that demonstrates both digital intelligence and human usability.

Course content

  • Digital transformation, digital technologies, and automation
  • Impact of technology implementation
  • Ethics and sustainability
  • Human-centered design

Specific requirements

Completed course of 7.5 credits in mathematics and 10 credits in mechanical engineering, including 3 credits in CAD basic course and 3 credits in product design.

Examination

LAB1, Laboratory work, a series of laboratory exercises that is continuously presented according to instructions, 1,5 credits, examines learning outcome 3, marks Fail (U) or Pass (G) 
PRO1, Project work, an assignment that is presented with a report and a demonstration of the project, 3 credits, examines learning outcomes 2 - 5, marks Fail (U), 3, 4 or 5 
TEN1, Written on-campus examination, 2,5 credits, examines learning outcomes 1 and 2, marks Fail (U), 3, 4 or 5 
OBN1, Mandatory attendence, 0,5 credits, marks Fail (U) or Pass (G)

A student who has a certificate from MDU regarding disability study support, can request adaptions for the examination. It is the examiner who takes decisions on any adaptions, based on the certificate and other conditions.

Grade

Grading scale: 5, 4, 3