Transforming Challenges into Solutions: Student-Centred Learning with Design Thinking

Assoc. Prof. Dr Brigita Stanikūnienė, Vice-Dean for Education, Kaunas University of Technology
Assoc. Prof. Dr Nida Kvedaraitė, Head of the Technologies and Entrepreneurship Competences Centre, Kaunas University of Technology.

This lecture presents how we apply the design thinking method in teaching, engaging students in solving real-life challenges and developing innovative solutions.

During the lecture, we discuss the entire process—from identifying and understanding a challenge to generating ideas, prototyping, and presenting the final solution. Particular attention is given to learning through practice: by working in real contexts, students develop creativity, critical thinking, and the ability to make decisions in uncertain situations.

The lecture also showcases concrete examples of student projects, revealing the birth of their ideas, their development over time, and the final outcomes.

Students’ reflections will be analysed, providing insights into how the design thinking approach influences their learning, motivation, and sense of responsibility. In addition, the principles of organising teamwork, will be presented: how teams were formed, roles distributed, collaboration encouraged, and peer learning fostered.

Assessment practices are also discussed, including how students evaluated one another, provided feedback, and learned from their peers’ experiences.