Design Thinking for Social Impact

An IATL interdisciplinary module

Module Code

IL924-15 (15 CATS)

Module Convenors

Dr Tom Ritchie

Email: Tom.Ritchie@warwick.ac.uk

Ed Watson

Email: Ed.Watson.2@warwick.ac.uk

When/Where

17th - 21st March (Easter Vacation)

Where

IAS Seminar Room, C0.02 - Zeeman Building

Assessment

Design Thinking for Social Impact Portfolio (1500 words) 50%

Design Thinking for Social Impact Reflective Essay (1500 words) 25%

Group Presentation 25%

What is this module about?

This interdisciplinary postgraduate module offers an in-depth introduction to Design Thinking as research and practice and focuses on its uses in the field of "social change".

Design Thinking for Social Impact is an effective way to gain insights into pressing human problems and the module will help you build the skills required to develop innovative and sustainable solutions. During the module, we will focus on participatory design and the development of design capabilities in communities (communities solving pressing problems for themselves as opposed to solving them for communities). We will draw upon a body of academic and professional knowledge to apply theory, creative practice, and formal design thinking methods. We will develop a deeper understanding of the world and, together, we will devise ways to transform it for social good applying innovation and enterprise.

During the module you will learn what it means to 'think like a designer' and undertake the challenge of participatory innovation and enhancement projects that use design thinking approaches with real, diverse communities to deliver real social impact. We will work together in workshops to cultivate a work-like environment where you will be equipped with a range of practical skills commonly used in industries ranging from the largest corporations to small startups. These skills, highly sought after by employers, are particularly effective when working in small diverse groups where equitable contributions from everyone are fostered. This module aims to be a transformative experience.

What will the module cover?

The module explores Design Thinking in a way that allows you to build your knowledge, skills and confidence when using Design Thinking for Social Impact.

Sprint: Foundations in Design Thinking - this is a student led real life simulation addressing a sustainability challenge with guidance and support

Empathise: developing an awareness for the importance of empathy and user needs.
Define: explore the way in which key design questions and challenges can be sharpened using user insights and empathy. We use case studies to illustrate the value of understanding the need and focusing the efforts and limited resources to make the right impact.
Ideate: we engage diverse stakeholders and challenge ourselves to think outside the box.
Prototype: we focus on ideas that have the potential to make a greater Social Good and develop them further.
Test: we then test ideas and solutions and so continuing to co-create and create shared ownership of designs. Throughout, we encourage an iterative approach and value and use feedback. We also incorporate storytelling for impact, influence & inspiration.

One of the key skills we emphasise is to coach each other into becoming independent change agents and facilitators of design thinking for social impact. We introduce various facilitation techniques and leadership skills to create change and impact.

The sprint guides you through working on a particular UN Sustainable Goal or any other social goal of your choosing. We draw on expertise from external speakers who are all making social impact and using various aspects of Design Thinking to create social value and change.

Throughout the module we explain how to develop solutions with the communities and individuals involved and how collaborations with different sectors (government, academia, NGOs, not-for-profit organisations, as well as the private sector) lead to better and more enduring change. The solutions may be relevant in many ways, from establishing new business models, new social enterprises or to develop new policies.

We reference a variety of Design Thinking frameworks and compare and contrast the various methodologies and practices.

How will I be assessed?

Portfolio assignment

Students will be tasked with exploring a set of design challenges, following the progression of the module and expanding student knowledge base and confidence using design thinking mindset and tools for social impact. Draft submissions will give students the opportunity to gain formative feedback and iterate their studies for the final portfolio. One of the challenges will involve students working in teams to address a challenge and create a meaningful response. This will equip the students with an appreciation of the value of designing, decision making and problem solving in interdisciplinary groups. Students will also be giving and receiving feedback from their peers as part of this group challenge. Students can present the portfolio in any way they like and preferably not all as text. Effective use of audio, video, diagrams and photos will be strongly encouraged and can replace much of the word count.

Reflective piece

Students will be encouraged to explore the topic of Design Thinking for Social Impact using their learning from the module, home discipline, extra curricular activities, and their personal background. Students will be supported with resources and 1:1 coaching by module leaders.

Presentation - Group

The students will craft and present their chosen challenge and response as interpreted and refined by them, in a creative and emotionally engaging story which demonstrates the use and application of the knowledge and skills gained on the module. This presentation will help students to communicate their personal passion, insights and findings, and their final design (where possible and appropriate) to diverse audience.

What skills will I develop?

Having completed the module, you will be able to confidently and successfully undertake participatory innovation and enhancement projects using the design thinking approach with real, diverse communities. You will understand what it means to ‘think like a designer’, supported by knowledge of academic research in design, and will naturally translate this into action. You will have an effective repertoire of techniques and tools. You will also have a critical appreciation of the limits of Design Thinking, and the negative impacts it may have when undertaken without a sound appreciation of culture, power, history and difference.

You will be well positioned to continue your work as design thinkers and designerly change agents. These skills are highly valued in the workplace, start-ups and social enterprises.

Learning outcomes

See module catalogue: link to follow

How to register

Complete our online form to request your place.

Once IATL have confirmed you have been allocated a place, follow your home department's procedure to register.

Institute for Advanced Teaching and Learning (IATL)

Design Thinking for Social Impact