A Design Case for Professional Development for K–12 Educators on Design Thinking

• In Event: Design With Technology

Abstract

This design case reports the design, implementation, and impact of a professional development (PD) program focused on design thinking. The goal of the PD program was to take elementary school teachers with limited science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) engagement and broaden their understanding of incorporating STEM in their classrooms through the implementation of design thinking lessons. Through this program, participants improved their knowledge of, skills in, and attitudes towards design thinking. Participants learned about implementing the design thinking process, specifically areas such as providing students an opportunity to fail and struggle as they worked. The PD program was impactful due to the authentic opportunities for the teachers to practice what they learned.

Authors

• T. Logan Arrington, University of West Georgia

• Lara Willox, The University of West Georgia