Hobart, Launceston
Introduction
‘Design thinking’ draws on creative, iterative and collaborative approaches to problem-solving, including exploration of potential solutions though idea generation, rapid prototyping and testing. While conventional approaches to problem-solving often rely on the application of highly structured methodologies and process controls, design thinking encourages incorporation of diverse perspectives, free association of ideas, subjective perspectives and emotional inputs. Design thinking often generates innovative solutions to problems due to its more open-ended approach.
In this unit, you will be introduced to the principles of design thinking through investigation of design thinking theory, as well as specific examples and case studies. You will then apply these principles in a small-scale project that involves problem formulation and application of design thinking to the development of proposed solutions. The unit provides you with opportunities to learn and apply the key concepts, principles and processes of design thinking. As a result, you will explore the theory, as well as use design thinking tools and techniques in practice.
Practical Approaches to Learning at University College
The University College is committed to providing students with opportunities to engage in practical learning experiences. Every unit is therefore driven by at least one approach that is problem or project-based, or that involves work-integrated learning.
In this unit, you will participate in a range of learning activities that focus on design thinking processes and principles, and then be provided opportunities to apply these in practice. You will therefore empathise with the customer/user, identify and define the problem, prototype, test and propose solutions.
These activities allow you to develop discipline-specific skills, knowledge and behaviours, alongside a range of employability skills and professional attributes. Some of these include, for example, empathy, active inquiry, critical thinking, problem solving, creativity and innovation, and communication.
Summary 2020
| Unit name | Design Thinking |
|---|---|
| Unit code | ZAD121 |
| Credit points | 12.5 |
| Faculty/School | University College |
| Discipline | Applied Design |
| Coordinator | Sophia Holmes |
| Available as student elective? | Yes |
| Breadth Unit? | No |
Availability
Note
Please check that your computer meets the minimum System Requirements if you are attending via Distance/Off-Campus.
Units are offered in attending mode unless otherwise indicated (that is attendance is required at the campus identified). A unit identified as offered by distance, that is there is no requirement for attendance, is identified with a nominal enrolment campus. A unit offered to both attending students and by distance from the same campus is identified as having both modes of study.
Special approval is required for enrolment into TNE Program units.
TNE Program units special approval requirements.
* The Final WW Date is the final date from which you can withdraw from the unit without academic penalty, however you will still incur a financial liability (see withdrawal dates explained for more information).
Learning Outcomes
1. Identify and describe principles & processes of design thinking
2. Analyse specific examples of design & explain influences of design thinking
3. Apply design thinking in practice
4. Reflect on the design thinking process
Fees
Teaching
| Teaching Pattern | Two hour tutorial and three hours of collaborative workshops per week. Launceston and Hobart students will study at Foundry campuse |
|---|---|
| Assessment | AT1: Problem Formulation (30%) AT2: Design Steps (30%) AT3: Solution Design & Rationale (40% |
| Timetable | View the lecture timetable | View the full unit timetable |
Textbooks
| Required | None |
|---|
The University reserves the right to amend or remove courses and unit availabilities, as appropriate.