Design Thinking is a methodology used by designers to solve problems, and find desirable solutions for people. A design mindset is not merely problem-focused, it’s solution focused and action oriented towards creating a preferred future. Design Thinking draws upon logic, imagination, intuition, and systemic reasoning, to explore possibilities of what could be—and to create desired outcomes that benefit the end user. 

In Grade 2, students recently used Design Thinking to create stools. They determined a need in the classroom (stools that provide a unique sitting option), then made a plan for their first iteration. With the assistance of teachers, students worked with various tools (drills, staples) to stabilize plastic crates with wood, then provided padding for added comfort. In the coming days the girls will obtain user feedback, then go back to make a second improved iteration, implementing what they learned from peer comments.

Projects like these will be taking place throughout the year in grades K-8 with the leadership of Brian Louie. Mr. Louie has been working in technology education for 18 years and is excited to share his lifelong passion for building and creating with the Hamlin community as the Design and Making Instructor. Through Human Centered Design, he will be helping students find imaginative ways to problem solve and create new solutions that are tailor made to suit the needs of others in our school community. Grade 8 students are taking Mr. Louie’s elective class and will no doubt become Design Thinking experts.