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Design for Behavioural Change unit (KDA217)

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Unit year 2026

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Location: Hobart

Introduction

This unit integrates behavioural science principles with design methodologies to address complex "wicked problems" rooted in human behaviour. Students will explore how attitudes, values, habits, and decision-making processes influence individual and collective actions, and how design can effectively intervene to facilitate positive change. The unit examines cognitive processes including perception, heuristics, and decision-making frameworks, alongside the frictions and motivations that drive or inhibit behavioural patterns.

Summary

Unit name Design for Behavioural Change
Unit code KDA217
Credit points 12.5
College/School Sciences and Engineering
School of Architecture and Design
Discipline Architecture & Design
Coordinator Mrs Sophia Holmes
Available as an elective? Yes
Delivered By University of Tasmania
Level Intermediate

Sustainable Development Goals

The Unit Coordinator has identified that this unit aligns with the following UN Sustainable Development Goals. We welcome your thoughts and feedback on the alignment of the unit with these goals.

Availability

Location Study period Attendance options Available to
Hobart Semester 1 This unit is available through on-campus delivery Available to International Students Available to Domestic Students
  • Key:
  • This unit is available through on-campus delivery On-campus
  • This unit is available through off-campus delivery Off-Campus
  • Available to International Students International students
  • Available to Domestic Students Domestic students
Note

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Key Dates

Study Period Start date Census date WW date End date
Semester 1 23/02/2026 17/03/2026 20/04/2026 14/06/2026

* The Final WW Date is the final date from which you can withdraw from the unit without academic penalty, however you will still incur a financial liability (refer to How do I withdraw from a unit? for more information).

Unit census dates currently displaying for 2026 are indicative and subject to change. Finalised census dates for 2026 will be available from the 1st October 2025. Note census date cutoff is 11.59pm AEST (AEDT during October to March).

About Census Dates

Learning Outcomes

  • Explain how cognitive processes, heuristics, and social factors influence human decision-making using behavioural science theories.
  • Apply behavioural frameworks to diagnose barriers and identify intervention opportunities in real-world problems.
  • Evaluate behavioural interventions by assessing their effectiveness, ethics, and potential unintended consequences.
  • Design and prototype evidence-based interventions that address barriers and create measurable behavioural change.

Fee Information

Field of Education Commencing Student Contribution 1,3 Grandfathered Student Contribution 1,3 Approved Pathway Course Student Contribution 2,3 Domestic Full Fee 4
100500 $1,192.00 $1,020.00 not applicable $2,972.00
  • Available as a Commonwealth Supported Place
  • HECS-HELP is available on this unit, depending on your eligibility3
  • FEE-HELP is available on this unit, depending on your eligibility4

1 Please refer to more information on student contribution amounts.
2 Please refer to more information on eligibility and Approved Pathway courses.
3 Please refer to more information on eligibility for HECS-HELP.
4 Please refer to more information on eligibility for FEE-HELP.

If you have any questions in relation to the fees, please contact UniConnect or more information is available on StudyAssist.

Please note: international students should refer to What is an indicative Fee? to get an indicative course cost.

Teaching

AssessmentBehavioural Analysis and Opportunity Mapping (30%)|Behavioural Design Strategy and Impact Evaluation (30%)|Behavioural Intervention Design and Prototype (40%)
TimetableView the lecture timetable | View the full unit timetable

Textbooks

Required

Kalantidou, E. (2025). Introduction to design Psychology. Taylor & Francis.

https://suebehaviouraldesign.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/The-Art-of-Designing-Behaviour-Astrid-Groenewegen_UK_Inkijkexemplaar.pdf
Recommended

Wallaert, M. (2019). Start at the end: How to Build Products That Create Change. Penguin.

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