Design Thinking Process

It's a Process! Non-linear, open and iterative!

Ask - In this stage of the process, students ask questions and problem seek. They develop and define what the problem is and why it is important. They research their questions to learn more about the problem as they discover what they can do about it.

Imagine - When students imagine, they brainstorm as many possible solutions to the problem. This stage is often kicked off with a "stoke" activity to activate their imaginations. We encourage students to dream up wild and crazy ideas. We say, "Yes, and...!" to build on each other's ideas.

Plan - After brainstorming all of the possibilities, students go through a selection process to narrow down their ideas. Using criteria and constraints, they determine one solution that they want to develop into their prototype. They plan which materials they will need and present their plans before the next stage for feedback.

Create - The design process is iterative and non-linear, so it's important to give ample time to create while encouraging "rapid prototyping". Because students know that they will be getting feedback, they should try to create enough of a prototype that they can communicate their idea to others and test how it will work.

Improve - The improve phase is necessary to allow for students to test their ideas and gain feedback to help their prototype be successful. Students practice giving each other kind, helpful and specific feedback. They use the feedback that will benefit them and apply it to the next iteration of their prototype. This is also a helpful time to share what is working and have students discuss what makes a successful design. Remember, it is important to encourage a variety of solutions and share the real world importance of user feedback to improve.

Communicate - During this phase, students share their final prototypes with an authentic audience. They explain how it works and how it solves the problem. Often this can be done with the whole class in an exhibition style event.

Reflection - Students constantly reflect throughout the design thinking process. They analyze the choices they make, reflect on their plan and think about what went well and what could be improved as they test their designs. At the end of a design thinking challenge, students reflect on the process and how they grew in their Habits of Mind as engineers.