Unit 1: Introduction to Design Thinking

The unit introduces Design Thinking as a human-centered, iterative process essential for solving complex problems. It covers the five stages: Empathize, Define, Ideate, Prototype, and Test, emphasizing collaborative learning through analysis of case studies and hands-on workshops. Students are encouraged to utilize user feedback to refine ideas and prototypes in real contexts, reinforcing the importance of empathy and iteration in design.

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Sections

  • 1

    Introduction To Design Thinking

    This section introduces Design Thinking as a human-centered, iterative approach for solving complex problems through five stages: Empathize, Define, Ideate, Prototype, and Test.

  • 1.1

    Overview

    This section introduces Design Thinking as a human-centered approach for solving problems, detailing its stages and learning objectives for Grade 8 students.

  • 1.2

    Learning Objectives

    Students will learn to articulate and apply the five stages of Design Thinking to effectively solve complex problems.

  • 1.3

    The Five Stages Of Design Thinking

    The section outlines the five stages of Design Thinking, emphasizing the cyclical nature of the process and the unique objectives and activities associated with each stage.

  • 1.3.1

    Empathize

    The Empathize stage in Design Thinking focuses on understanding the needs and experiences of end-users through observation and interaction.

  • 1.3.2

    Define

    The Define stage in Design Thinking focuses on transforming raw user research into clear and actionable problem statements.

  • 1.3.3

    Ideate

    Ideation is a key stage in Design Thinking, focused on exploring diverse solutions to problems without judgment.

  • 1.3.4

    Prototype

    The Prototype stage of Design Thinking involves creating tangible models to test ideas and gather user feedback.

  • 1.3.5

    Test

    The Test stage in Design Thinking focuses on validating assumptions through real user feedback.

  • 2

    Analysis Of Real-World Product Case Studies

    This section analyzes real-world design examples to illustrate the practical applications of Design Thinking.

  • 2.1

    Case Study: Collapsible Travel Cup

    This case study illustrates the application of Design Thinking in creating a collapsible travel cup through user empathy and iterative design.

  • 2.2

    Case Study: Adaptive Backpack Organizer

    This case study discusses the design thinking process behind the development of an adaptive backpack organizer aimed at helping students efficiently manage their school supplies.

  • 3

    Rapid Empathy-Mapping Workshop

    The Rapid Empathy-Mapping Workshop section provides a structured exercise for students to synthesize user insights and prepare for the Define stage of the Design Thinking process.

  • 3.1

    Preparation

    This section outlines the necessary preparation steps for conducting an empathy-mapping workshop within the Design Thinking process.

  • 3.2

    Activity Steps

    This section describes the structured activity steps for conducting an empathy-mapping workshop in the design thinking process.

  • 3.3

    Debrief & Reflection

    This section emphasizes the importance of debriefing and reflection in the context of Design Thinking.

  • 4

    Chapter Summary

    This chapter provides an introduction to Design Thinking, focusing on its five key stages and the iterative nature of the process.

Class Notes

Memorization

What we have learnt

  • Design Thinking involves a ...
  • Empathy is crucial in under...
  • Prototyping and testing are...

Final Test

Revision Tests

Chapter FAQs