Design Thinking: a problem-solving approach for first-year undergrad students

Abstract

The present article describes the experience of applying Design Thinking to approach the deficiency in problem-solving skills in freshmen undergraduate students. The quantification of the methodology applied at ESPOL is performed by measuring specific student outcomes aiming problem-solving in 817 students. Additionally, the sponsors and students' feedback are used as an indirect measurement of the acceptance and effectiveness of the proposed methods.