Design Thinking at EM3

How We Use Design Thinking in Core Content Classrooms with Arts Integration

Introduction to Design Thinking

Design Thinking is a problem-solving approach that emphasizes understanding the user, challenging assumptions, redefining problems, and creating innovative solutions. At East Millbrook Academy of Arts and Design, we integrate this method into our core content classrooms to enhance learning and foster creativity.

The Five Phases of Design Thinking

1. Empathize: Understand the needs and experiences of students.
2. Define: Clearly articulate the problem to be solved.
3. Ideate: Brainstorm a wide range of ideas and potential solutions.
4. Prototype: Create tangible representations of ideas.
5. Test: Experiment with prototypes to gather feedback and refine solutions.

How Design Thinking is Integrated with the Arts

At East Millbrook, we believe that integrating the Arts into core subjects enriches learning experiences. Here's how we combine design thinking with arts integration:

1. Empathize: Students engage in activities that allow them to experience and understand different perspectives. For example, in a social studies class, they might explore historical events through the eyes of various characters in a play.
2. Define: In an English class, students could identify central themes and problems in a novel, then translate these into visual art projects that express these ideas.
3. Ideate: Math classes might involve students brainstorming creative ways to visualize complex concepts, like using dance or sculpture to represent geometric shapes or mathematical theories.
4. Prototype: Science students could build models or create multimedia presentations to demonstrate their understanding of scientific principles.
5. Test: In all subjects, students test their prototypes and receive feedback from peers and teachers, refining their projects to better meet the learning objectives.

Example of Design Thinking in Practice

Science Class: Understanding Ecosystems through Art

Phase 1: Empathize
Students begin by studying different ecosystems. They watch documentaries, read articles, and engage in discussions to understand the delicate balance and interdependence of living organisms within these systems.

Phase 2: Define
Students identify specific problems within ecosystems, such as the impact of pollution on coral reefs. They define the problem they want to address: How can we raise awareness about the threats to coral reefs?

Phase 3: Ideate
In art class, students brainstorm ways to visually represent the beauty and fragility of coral reefs. They come up with ideas like creating a mural, designing an interactive exhibit, or producing a short film.

Phase 4: Prototype
Students create prototypes of their chosen projects. For instance, a group might build a 3D model of a coral reef using recycled materials, while another group might start sketching a storyboard for their film.

Phase 5: Test
Students present their prototypes to classmates and receive feedback. They refine their projects based on the input, making adjustments to better convey their message about the importance of protecting coral reefs.

Conclusion

By combining design thinking with arts integration, East Millbrook Academy of Arts and Design empowers students to become creative problem-solvers. This approach not only enhances their understanding of core content but also develops their ability to think critically and innovate. Through hands-on projects and artistic expression, students gain a deeper appreciation for the interconnectedness of knowledge and the world around them.