This course offers an in-depth exploration of human-centered design methods, focusing on how to identify, understand, and prioritize the needs of diverse communities, such as local, organizational, and user groups, to inform effective design solutions. Through applied projects and hands-on exercises, students will engage a range of research and design methods, integrating theoretical perspectives from the behavioral and social sciences with design practice. The course prepares students to address real-world design challenges while maintaining a strong focus on the people and communities impacted by their work.