Design Justice in Human-Computer Interaction and User Experience: Frameworks, Case Studies, and Evaluation Metrics

Kakembo Aisha Annet

Faculty of Education, Kampala International University, Uganda

                                                                                  ABSTRACT
Design justice has emerged as a critical paradigm within Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) and User Experience (UX), foregrounding the role of design in shaping, reinforcing, or challenging systemic inequities. This paper examines the conceptual foundations, frameworks, case studies, and evaluation metrics that define design justice in contemporary HCI/UX practice. Drawing from critical design theory, feminist technoscience, and participatory methodologies, it positions design as an inherently political and value-laden activity. The study explores key frameworks, including participatory design, community-led governance, power-aware design, and critical design approaches that seek to redistribute power and center marginalized voices in technological development. Through selected case studies in health technology, education, and civic platforms, the paper illustrates how justice-oriented design interventions address inequities in access, representation, and usability. It further evaluates methodological approaches and metrics, emphasizing both process-oriented indicators (participation, representation, empowerment) and outcome-oriented measures (usability, accessibility, and impact on inequality). The analysis highlights persistent challenges such as tokenism, resource constraints, and tensions between usability and justice goals. Ultimately, the paper underscores the importance of integrating design justice into practice, policy, and education to foster equitable, inclusive, and accountable technological systems.

Keywords: Design Justice; Human-Computer Interaction (HCI); User Experience (UX); Participatory Design; and Digital Equity.

CITE AS: Kakembo Aisha Annet (2026). Design Justice in Human-Computer Interaction and User Experience: Frameworks, Case Studies, and Evaluation Metrics. IDOSR JOURNAL OF ARTS AND HUMANITIES 12(1):22-31. https://doi.org/10.59298/IDOSRJAH/2025/1212231