Design Thinking

I was recently reading the January/February 2022 issue of “Science & Children” a publication of the National Science Teaching Association.  In this issue, I read the section, “Editor’s Note,” written by Elizabeth Barrett-Zahn.  She wrote an article entitled, “Design Thinking.” 

Design Thinking is a solution-based technique used to solve problems.    The basics of Design Thinking are:

Empathize – consider others’ needs, not just solve the problem

Define – define the problem and create a meaningful and actionable problem statement

Ideate – encourage innovation through brainstorming

Prototype – identify and develop the best solution through multiple iterations

Test – evaluate prototypes and consider improvements