DSN 640: Design Thinking
             
Prerequisite: Graduate standing in MFA – Design Thinking concentration

Credit Hours: (3)
      

This online course introduce students to creative cognition theories, creative intelligence testing, and the methodologies imbedded in the design thinking process.


Detailed Description of Course

Content: Design thinking methodologies are introduced along with theories relative to creative cognition, and the relevance of intelligence testing.  The course will provide opportunities for studies in creative cognition theories, an understanding of creative intelligence and the methodologies imbedded in the design thinking process.  Design thinking processes will be explored and applications tested.


Detailed Description of Conduct of Course

This is an online course.  Students will take one or more creative intelligence tests and apply their results to various dimensions of innovation.


Goals and Objectives of this Course:

To master basic design thinking strategies, the student must:
    1. take a creative intelligence test and analyze its meaning;
    2. identify and demonstrate applications for creative cognition theories;
    3. read, assess and define design thinking strategies and methods of application;
    4. learn to use brainstorming strategies;
    5. identify and define relevant aspects of a design problem;
    6. gather appropriate and necessary information, and research findings to solve a problem;
    7. demonstrate creative thinking and originality through presentation of a variety of ideas, approaches and concepts;
    8. seek and define the right problem;
    9. demonstrate the value of empathy relative to a specific problem;
    10. use the elements and principles of design theory in problem solutions;
    11. apply solutions to contemporary issues.


Collaboration

The student will be able to:
    1. apply team work structures and dynamics;
    2. collaborate, build consensus, develop leadership skills and work in teams;
    3. collaborate among and integrate multiple disciplines’ perspectives;
    4. encourage spontaneous interactions among members; and
    5. create an "environment" where members can experiment, take risks, and explore the full range of their faculties.


Communication

The student will be able to:
    1. express ideas clearly in oral, written and graphic formats;
    2. write a project brief; and
    3. process information using convergent/divergent thinking and analysis and synthesis strategies.


Technology

The student must demonstrate the ability to:
    1. develop assignments using multiple digital formats.


Assessment Measures

May include but are not limited to writings, tests, presentations, assignments, discussion threads on reading assignments

Other Course Information

None