11 Design Thinking Challenge
Detailed Description of Learning Activity
Design thinking is an innovative process with which to approach difficult and ill-defined problems. It leads learners to think outside the box to solve real challenges in the discipline or workforce. This activity would work well as a capstone project, where a difficult welding problem, with multiple factors and variables, needs to be solved. Students work collaborative as a whole group or in teams to research the problem, ideate solutions, test them, and recommend a final design.
| Empathize | Define | Ideate | Prototype | Test |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Develop a deep understanding of challenge. Ask questions. Research. Observe. | Clearly articulate the problem you want to solve. State the goal in one sentence. | Brainstorm potential solutions. No idea is a bad one. Order your ideas. Select one to develop. | Develop a prototype to test your solution. | Test your solution and make improvements as you go. Iterate your solution. Make a final recommendation. |
Purpose of Activity
- Solve real problems.
- Apply theory and practical skills to complex challenges.
What Makes This Open?
- Connected to wider community.
- Non-disposable assignment.
- Incorporates reflective practice.
- Collaborative/team-based learning.
Assessment
This works well as a capstone project. Student can be asked to summarize the project goals and processes in a report with a reflective element. Students can be asked to self-evaluate, and evaluate the contribution of their peers to their project.
Time
| Activity | Time |
|---|---|
| Explanation of activity and presentation of problem/challenge | 1 hour |
| Empathize and Define | depends on complexity of project |
| Ideate | 1–2 hours |
| Prototype and Test | depends on complexity of project |
| Report writing | 1–2 days |
Resources Required
- Design challenge to present to students (preferably a real problem that needs solving in the community).
- Scrap paper, post-it notes, pens.
- Appropriate welding materials for prototype.
