15. Design Thinking

Introduction

Design Thinking is the process of designing something to solve a problem. It shares a lot of similarities to the Engineering Design Process you might learn in a STEM class and the Scientific Method you learn in science. However, it tends to work well in creating solutions to problems that impact humans, also known as Human-Centered Design.

In this Thing, you will learn about the process through examples, and then work with a team to identify a problem, come up with ideas to solve it, make a prototype of your best idea, test it out, and ultimately share it. Your goal is to make a positive impact on the problem you choose.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES

1. Be able to use research skills to understand real-world problems and develop ideas to solve them [Innovative Designer, Knowledge Constructor].
2. Know how to use a design process to solve a problem [Innovative Designer].
3. Be able to create and test prototypes to improve on a design [Innovative Designer].
4. Be able to choose appropriate tools to organize and manage a process with team members [Innovative Designer, Global Collaborator].
5. Be able to choose appropriate tools to share your ideas with a target audience [Innovative Designer, Creative Communicator].
6. Understand Tinkercad design software basics [Empowered Learner].
7. Know how to use Tinkercad software to design your invention that solves a problem or changes how people interact with the world [Innovative Designer].
8. Know that technology is something that solves a problem or changes how people interact with the world [Knowledge Constructor].