DESIGN THINKING

With clear organization and a focus on fostering growth and action, this guide to the design thinking process offers much to young innovators and the educators who empower them.

While design thinking has been part of the curriculum for some time, this simple how-to guide extends the “model originated by IDEO and the Stanford d.school” to include “designing for social impact”—a special focus on helping people design equitable and sustainable solutions to community problems. The book employs colorful graphic elements and a flexible, step-by-step model that will enable users to replicate the successes of the sample projects highlighted in its anecdotes and case studies, including innovations that help people with disabilities. Each chapter immerses readers in one phase of the design process while keeping an eye on the larger goal through tools such as troubleshooting aids and specific techniques, like non-defensive listening. With its long list of resources and sources to consult, the book will aid educators who are looking to launch a design thinking program, but the unvarnished language and direct approach make this book accessible to young readers who are hoping to bring about change in their communities. Veteran educator Estes encourages a positive mindset built on empathy, collaboration, curiosity, and openness to differences that enhances learning and growth in all settings.

Valuable for classrooms, homeschools, and community groups: a guide to problem-based learning for the greater good.