An understanding of design and the design cycle is an iterative and developmental process. As such, students need support and structure in order to develop their ability to solve real-life design problems.

Design challenges provide a key strategy to scaffold teaching and learning. A design challenge is typically set within a contrived situation and has comparatively weak links to real life. The nature of the challenge will be given to students by the teacher, who will lead them through the design cycle process to develop a product. The challenge will be focused and specific with limited scope for different outcomes.

In later years, MYP design courses should address design problems. A design problem is a real-life problem that needs to be solved for a specific client or a target market. The nature of the problem will be explored by students, who will consider a variety of ways to approach and investigate possible solutions. The problem will include physical or functional requirements that all feasible solutions must meet.