Design Thinking

I was fortunate to attend Google's Innovator Academy in London this past spring.  I was introduced to Les McBeth of the Future Design School.  She brought us through all kinds of design thinking exercises to help us map out our innovation projects.  It was my favorite part of the training.  I loved being given freedom to think anything in a structured way and time.  For example, we had time limits, we had rules, but our ideas could be anything.  Then we reflected on our ideas, we tried again, we asked for help, and we fine tuned.  

Crazy 8s practice

Setting up for feedback

While recently reading more about Design Thinking and watching some videos, I took some notes.  I try to sketchnote but really my doodles are pretty weak.  

From my notes and reflection, I pulled some key phrases.  Then I used my Word Swag app to create something more visually appealing.  These statements are all great reminders when using design thinking.  

Finally, I compiled some resources that I used during my time in London and have continued to lean on while back in the real world.  Design thinking is something I would love to teach.  I imagine during committee work it could be especially powerful.  I have a huge upcoming opportunity to work on capstone projects with seniors at our high school.  Design thinking will be our first steps!

• Yes, but... Yes, and...
• Crazy 8s
• Post it app 
• Future Design School
• Les McBeth's Twitter
• Word Swag app
• Rocketbook
• Tesla Amazing Magnetic Notes

Blogs and Wikis

I'm rereading Will Richardson's book.  It has been nearly a decade since I read it last.  It's incredible how little has changed but at the same time how much has changed.  Teachers are still afraid of these tools.  Schools are still blocking them.  Researchers are still proving how necessary they are for students.  Why are we stuck?  Why can't we snap out of it?  Textbooks are outdated.  Students can and should write their own.  Classrooms don't have to have walls anymore.  Learners can go anywhere with web tools.  Why aren't we?  What is stopping us - training, time, bravery?  Let's make time, find training (guess what - it's on the web), and get brave.  Our students are counting on us.  

This is not the last time.

I started out thinking that I wish the title of this post wasn't true. But, what kind of hypocrite would that make me? I have started a new blog/website at least a dozen times. For a million different reasons/lame excuses, I haven't kept with it. I keep trying again though. I know it's important. I know my voice matters. I tell teachers and students this all the time. So, I'm trying again. Stay tuned.