Problem solving can be challenging, especially when we try to do it alone. Sometimes our feelings get in the way and it makes problem solving even more difficult. When we have others supporting us, it often helps us to relieve our fears and frustrations to find many solutions. Design thinking is one way to work with others to solve problems.
Watch the video and decide individually or as a class, which problem you would like to solve using the Design Thinking Framework. It can be a physical problem like the water purity discussed in the video or a more social problem like increasing hand washing in class. Review this document for additional guidance and prompts on design thinking.
Watch the video and decide individually or as a class, which problem you would like to solve using the Design Thinking Framework. It can be a physical problem like the map idea in the video or a more social problem like cyberbullying. Review this document for additional guidance and prompts on design thinking.
Use the design thinking model to consider problems in your neighborhood or community. Collaborate with family members or a group of friends to find solutions for this problem. Are there other community members that might be helpful with your ideas? Maybe you can arrange a Zoom meeting with a local scientist or a housing development professional that could give you feedback if you want to address housing issues in your community. It’s always great when we can learn from and support each other.
These lessons work best in whole class and small groups. Devising problem ideas prior to this lesson will help to facilitate the conversations. Encourage students to seek out community members as a next step in their research process. Secondary students might benefit from discussion with young professionals in their preferred career fields or areas of interest.
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