Jonan Phillip Donaldson, Kati Stoddard, Summer Odom, Dawn Parker, Sushil Paudyal, Shawna Thomas, Kathrin Dunlap, Tazim Jamal,
International Conference of the Learning Sciences (ICLS), edited by Clark Chinn, Edna Tan, Carol Chan, Yael Kali, Hiroshima, Japan: International Society of the Learning Sciences (ISLS), June 2022.
Abstract: This study examines the design thinking process as a structure for collaborative project-based learning in undergraduate courses ranging from biomedical sciences to teacher
education. Our aim in this design-based research study was to understand how design processes are experienced and to develop a set of design principles. Individually written reflection papers were coded in categories including design aspects that worked well as well as student struggles. Code co-occurrence correlations were calculated and a network map created. Findings in each set of relationships were translated into design moves. One important finding was that learning through design thinking requires truly collaborative work where team members work
collectively throughout the design process. The learning experience should also be designed to emphasize building relationships of interdependence. The innovative analytical process used provides valuable insights to improve the use of design thinking for collaborative project-based learning in multiple disciplines.
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