Design Thinking unit (ZAD121)

Hobart, Launceston, Online

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.

Summary

Unit name	Design Thinking
Unit code	ZAD121
Credit points	12.5
College/School	University College
Discipline	Pathways
Coordinator	Mr Tony Flowers
Available as an elective?	Yes
Delivered By	University of Tasmania
Level	Introductory

Availability

Location	Study period	Attendance options		Available to
Hobart	Semester 1
Launceston	Semester 1
Online	Semester 1

Note

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Key Dates

Study Period	Start date	Census date	WW date	End date
Semester 1	22/2/2026	16/3/2026	19/4/2026	13/6/2026

* 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 (refer to How do I withdraw from a unit? for more information).

Unit census dates currently displaying for 2026 are indicative and subject to change. Finalised census dates for 2026 will be available from the 1st October 2025. Note census date cutoff is 11.59pm AEST (AEDT during October to March).

About Census Dates

Learning Outcomes

• Identify and describe principles and processes of design thinking
• Analyse specific examples of design and explain influences of design thinking
• Apply design thinking in practice
• Reflect on the design thinking process

Fee Information

Field of Education	Commencing Student Contribution 1,3	Grandfathered Student Contribution 1,3	Approved Pathway Course Student Contribution 2,3	Domestic Full Fee 4
100599	$1,192.00	$1,020.00	not applicable	$2,972.00

• Available as a Commonwealth Supported Place
• HECS-HELP is available on this unit, depending on your eligibility³
• FEE-HELP is available on this unit, depending on your eligibility⁴

¹ Please refer to more information on student contribution amounts.
² Please refer to more information on eligibility and Approved Pathway courses.
³ Please refer to more information on eligibility for HECS-HELP.
⁴ Please refer to more information on eligibility for FEE-HELP.

If you have any questions in relation to the fees, please contact UniConnect or more information is available on StudyAssist.

Please note: international students should refer to What is an indicative Fee? to get an indicative course cost.

Requisites

Mutual Exclusions

You cannot enrol in this unit as well as the following:

ZAD107

Teaching

Teaching Pattern	2-hour weekly tutorials or workshops per semester.
Assessment	AT1: Design Thinking Workbook (30%)|AT2: Design Thinking: Wicked Problem Brief (30%)|AT3: Design Brief (40%)
Timetable	View the lecture timetable | View the full unit timetable

Textbooks

Required	N/A
Recommended	N/A

The University reserves the right to amend or remove courses and unit availabilities, as appropriate.