Promoting University Students' Creativity and Entrepreneurship: An AI-Powered Scenario-based Design Thinking Approach

• In Event: Designing Engaging Learning Environments: Insights from AI, VR, and Games

Abstract

Creativity and entrepreneurship are deeply interconnected. While design thinking (DT)—a process of experimentation, prototyping, and iteration—has shown promise in boosting creativity, its role in entrepreneurship education remains understudied. This research developed an AI-enhanced, scenario-based DT program to cultivate both creativity and entrepreneurial skills. Thirty-three university students participated in a 15-hour game design course, applying DT’s five stages (empathy to testing) to develop prototypes, guided by entrepreneurial scenarios and supported by generative AI. Results demonstrated significant improvements in creativity and entrepreneurial abilities, offering a practical framework for innovation education. The study highlights DT’s potential in preparing students for entrepreneurial challenges through structured, collaborative problem-solving.

Authors

• Chenguang Du, The Education Uni

• Shen Qiao, The Education University of Hong Kong