Álvaro Figueira won over the award jury with the presentation of “From Abstract to Prototype: theory, practice, reflection and incremental improvement in Human–Computer Interaction.”
The proposal “From Abstract to Prototype: theory, practice, reflection and incremental improvement in Human–Computer Interaction,” presented by the Faculty of Sciences of the University of Porto (DCC-FCUP) lecturer Álvaro Figueira, is among the six pedagogical approaches distinguished in the scope of the U.Porto Innovative Teaching Practice Award.
The idea originated from a largely theoretical course and aims to bring students closer to real processes of designing and evaluating interfaces, the visual and interactive component that allows users to communicate with a digital system. “I wanted to transform Human–Computer Interaction into a space where students think, test, make mistakes, correct them, and test again” explains Álvaro Figueira, who is also a researcher at INESC TEC and Director of the MSc in Data Science.
In a field marked by abstract concepts that are sometimes difficult to operationalise, the approach focuses on making them tangible through cycles of experimentation, prototyping, and evaluation that emphasise reasoned decision-making. The goal “is to help students understand that designing a graphical interface is not about decorating screens; it is about making informed decisions with real impact, often in problems with social and environmental relevance,” he notes, highlighting the importance of exposing students to challenges that reflect professional practice.
The monetary prize of €1,000, corresponding to the third place achieved, will be reinvested in the teaching process itself. Álvaro Figueira intends to use it to strengthen materials that support the practical component of the course and to explore ways of disseminating the pedagogical experience developed. “The idea is simple: put the prize to work instead of letting it just pose for the photo,” summarises the lecturer from the Department of Computer Science.
The distinction thus comes as a continuation of work that has sought to transform the classroom into a space for informed experimentation and decision-making.
About the award
In 2026, the University of Porto once again recognises projects that introduce new ways of teaching and learning in its classrooms. The Innovative Teaching Practice Award (PPI), promoted by the Educational Innovation Unit, annually distinguishes initiatives that present a solid and well-founded pedagogical intervention, promoting the active involvement of students and the use of innovative approaches and resources.
In this edition, the jury analysed proposals submitted by 64 lecturers from all organic units, selecting six projects that stood out for the quality and impact of their practices. The awarded initiatives receive a total financial support of €10,000, intended to strengthen teaching conditions through the acquisition of equipment, software, furniture, or other essential resources for the development of the proposed activities.
The awards ceremony is scheduled for 23 March, during the University Day 2026 Solemn Session, which will take place in the Grand Hall of the Rectorate, starting at 3:00 pm.