The RoboSteamSen project (2023-1-ES01-KA220-SCH-000155379) is co-funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Education and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA).

Design Thinking

Typology
Methodological
Resource description
Design Thinking is an educational method that emphasizes problem-solving and creativity, tailored to the unique needs of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). It involves a user-centered approach, encouraging students to empathize with others, define problems, ideate solutions, prototype, and test their ideas. This method fosters critical thinking, collaboration, and hands-on learning, helping IDD students develop practical skills and confidence. By focusing on the process rather than the end product, Design Thinking allows students to engage in learning that is flexible, iterative, and adaptable to their individual capabilities.
Sample of use in education with students with IDD
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33742525/
https://www.designinnovationglobal.com/design-thinking/articles/design-thinking-meets-disability-inclusion
https://ssir.org/articles/entry/how_to_make_design_thinking_more_disability_inclusive
Difficulties to which it could be applied
Emotional Regulation
  • Regulating Emotions
Emotional Regulation, Executive Functioning and Flexibility
  • Avoidance behavior or meltdowns
Emotional Regulation, Social Communication Challenges
  • Pragmatic language skills
  • Problems initiating and maintaining conversations
Executive Functioning and Flexibility, Learning and Cognitive Challenges
  • Constant changing activity or task
  • Organization and planning of tasks and activities
Executive Functioning and Flexibility, Repetitive Behaviors and Restricted Interests
  • Repetitive behavior
Learning and Cognitive Challenges
  • Cognitive Abilities
Repetitive Behaviors and Restricted Interests
  • Specialized skills or talents
Repetitive Behaviors and Restricted Interests, Specialized Skills and Talents
  • Memory and attention to detail
Learning Objetives
  • Cognitive and Behavioral Flexibility
  • Distinguising Meaningful contents
  • Engage in abstract thinking and Symbolic Though
  • Strategies for Effective Studying
  • Executive functions
  • Improving Attention and focus
  • Improving knowledge application
  • Improving Social Communication Skills
  • Memory improvement
  • Practical competences
  • Promote self-management
  • Promoting Flexibility and Adaptability