Universities face significant challenges in creating cohesive digital experiences due to fragmented design processes, inconsistent branding, and inefficient collaboration workflows. Initially inspired by research during my time as a web designer at Embry-Riddle but independently developed for my graduate studies, this educational course teaches university employees to create and manage design systems using Figma. The course provides tailored instruction for different roles, helping streamline design processes, improve collaboration, and maintain brand consistency.
6 Months
Learning Management System (LMS), Web
University/College Employees
Web-Based Resource, Workshop, Video-Based Learning, Self-Paced eLearning
Accessibility Compliance, Content Design, Consulting, Curriculum Development, Graphic Design, Instructional Design, Interface Design, Project Management, Multimedia Design, User Experience Design, Usability Testing and Analysis, Web Design
Wireframes, Interactive Prototypes, Design System Documentation, Figma Component Library, Accessibility Guidelines, Course Syllabus, Modular Course Structure, Weekly Lesson Plans, Branding Templates, Instructional Videos, Step-by-Step Tutorials, WCAG Compliance Documentation, User Personas, Learner Personas, Stakeholder Presentation, Final Course Prototype
As universities increasingly rely on digital platforms to engage with their constituents, the need for consistent, high-quality digital interfaces has become critical. Many institutions struggle with fragmented design processes, inconsistent branding, and inefficient team collaboration. Compounding these challenges is that many university employees tasked with digital design responsibilities are not trained designers. These issues result in increased development time, higher costs, and suboptimal user experiences for students, faculty, and staff.
Provide university employees with practical Figma skills for digital design collaboration.
Create a structured learning environment for non-designers to develop technical competency.
Deliver role-specific training that addresses diverse departmental needs.
Build institutional capacity for maintaining brand consistency through design systems.
Establish a foundation for accessibility compliance in all digital properties.
Cross-functional professionals (IT specialists, marketing staff, administrative personnel) with varying design experience.
Digital content stakeholders responsible for university’s brand consistency and web presence.
Non-designer staff (project managers, content creators, department coordinators) working on collaborative initiatives.
Technical implementers (web developers, digital media specialists) collaborating with external design vendors.
Professional development within existing roles rather than career change.
Immediate application needs for ongoing digital projects.
Organizational pressure to improve efficiency and quality of digital assets.
Desire to contribute meaningfully to cross-functional teams despite not being designers.
Interest in reducing dependency on external vendors for minor design changes.
Motivation to overcome feeling overwhelmed by new tools and processes.
Need for practical skills that integrate with existing workloads.
Self-paced learning to accommodate busy schedules.
Practical, hands-on exercises with real-world applications.
Visual demonstrations with step-by-step guidance.
Collaborative activities that mirror actual work scenarios.
Role-specific training that addresses individual job responsibilities.
Quick-reference materials for on-the-job application.
Explain the basics of Figma’s interface and how to use it collaboratively.
Develop basic wireframes and interactive prototypes using Figma tools.
Establish and maintain a university-wide design system with reusable components.
Implement accessibility standards (WCAG) throughout the design process.
Structured for adaptive learning paths with scaffolded progression based on role and experience level.
Designed with cognitive load management through chunked content delivery.
Incorporated evidence-based adult learning theories including experiential learning, self-directed learning, and transformative learning approaches.
Implemented gamification elements to increase engagement and motivation.
Ensured accessibility compliance throughout all learning materials.
Created with flexible progression options to accommodate varying schedules.
Video tutorials with synchronized transcripts and chapter navigation.
Scenario-based learning using university-specific examples.
Interactive exercises with immediate feedback mechanisms.
Team-based collaboration activities using Figma’s multiplayer features.
Role-play scenarios for handoff and feedback procedures.
Gamified challenges including scavenger hunts and timed activities.
Real-World Case Studies & Applications
Role-Based Learning Paths
Modular Learning Structure
Built-in Collaboration & Teamwork Features
Integrated Support & Resources
Module 1: Figma Fundamentals –
Introduces learners to Figma’s interface, basic functions, and collaboration features. Includes interface navigation exercises, wireframing practice, and initial team collaboration activities.
Module 2: Design System Architecture –
Focuses on creating and organizing design system components with accessibility in mind. Covers component development, documentation standards, and implementation of WCAG guidelines.
Module 3: Advanced System Integration –
Addresses enterprise-level design system management, including version control, cross-team collaboration, and deployment procedures. Culminates in comprehensive integration exercises.
Learners progress through modules sequentially, with knowledge assessments determining if they can bypass introductory sections. Collaborative activities occur at designated checkpoints, balancing self-paced learning flexibility with structured team engagement. The system tracks individual and team progress, with gamified elements encouraging completion and participation.
This interface serves as the central hub for the university’s digital design language, integrating deeply with the “Role-Based Exercise Workbooks” and “Quick Reference Guides.” The component documentation is structured to help both designers and non-designers understand proper usage.
The templates interface acts as a practical learning environment, bridging theory and application. The interface emphasizes practical application while maintaining consistent branding and accessibility standards, making it easier for university employees to create cohesive digital experiences.
The accessibility checklist is particularly valuable because it makes WCAG compliance accessible to non-technical team members while providing deeper technical insights for developers and designers.
Conducted needs analysis through interviews with university stakeholders.
Researched existing resources and identified gaps in Figma education for higher education.
Developed learning objectives and course structure based on adult learning principles.
Created module content with role-specific learning paths and interactive exercises.
Implemented gamification elements and produced accessible video content.
Built comprehensive resource library including templates and reference materials.
Tested with representative users and refined based on feedback.
Deployed final course with ongoing support resources including instructor office hours.
Knowledge checks and practical exercises integrated throughout each module.
Collaborative deliverables evaluated for quality, creativity, and effective teamwork.
Real-world scenarios requiring learners to demonstrate integrated skills in authentic design system challenges.
Structured surveys capturing satisfaction and perceived value at key completion points.
Data tracking for engagement metrics, completion rates, and feature utilization.
Real-world application assessment measuring how effectively learners apply course concepts in their daily work.
expected 25% improvement in product quality scores for teams using collaborative workflows
anticipated enhancement in decision-making through clearly defined roles and responsibilities
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