Designing for Real Users
Get ready to dive deep into the world of AI with Black Boys Code and explore how it's tackling real-world challenges!
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About this workshop
In May, students move beyond simply building AI projects into one of the most exciting stages of innovation: designing experiences for real people.
This workshop introduces learners to user-centered design, where technology is not just functional, but intuitive, engaging, and meaningful. Students begin to understand that the best digital products succeed because they connect with users, responding to their needs, emotions, and interactions.
Participants explore how AI can create personalized, interactive experiences, blending creativity with technical skills. It’s a powerful shift from “Does it work?” to “Does it feel right for the user?”
In the Beginner Track, students build emotion-responsive interactive stories that adapt in real time to a viewer’s facial expressions. Their projects come alive as narratives change based on how users feel, turning storytelling into a dynamic, personalized experience.
In the Advanced Track, students refine and elevate their Python chatbots into more polished, user-friendly systems. They improve logic, strengthen error handling, and enhance personality and usability through peer testing and real-world feedback, transforming their work from simple programs into real product-like experiences.
This workshop reinforces a key idea in modern technology: great products are designed for people, not just built for function.
This workshop is FREE, and all learning materials will be provided, students simply need to bring their curiosity, creativity, and willingness to build something meaningful.
This is the culminating creative project of the beginner AI journey.
Students design and build interactive stories that respond to human emotions in real time. Instead of following a fixed storyline, their stories branch into multiple paths, creating unique experiences for every user. A smile might trigger a joyful adventure, while a sad expression could unlock a comforting storyline.
Learners begin with intentional design, planning characters, settings, and story paths before coding, reinforcing that great digital experiences start with thoughtful ideas. They then bring their stories to life in Scratch using emotion detection and branching logic.
With functional chatbots already built, students now step into the role of product designers and engineers.
This session focuses on transforming chatbots into polished, user-friendly, and intelligent systems. Learners refine their code, implement error handling to improve reliability, and enhance user experience through clearer interactions and creative personality features.
Through peer testing and real feedback, students iterate on their designs, learning how real-world products are improved through continuous refinement.
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Brampton
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