Design Thinking for Social Change

Catalog description

Taught by ABSW. "Design Thinking" is a human-centered approach to problem solving and new product development that emerged from the high-tech, entrepreneurial world of Silicon Valley. It has evolved over the years into a process that is rooted in community-based research, ongoing testing of assumptions, a resistance to immediate answers for the sake of deeper insights, and hypothesizing future consequences. This course introduces the design thinking model with leading design thinking consultants--including an interactive workshop in which students collaborate on a realistic design challenge--and opportunities to adapt this model for leadership skills in both congregational settings and non-profit organizations for effective social change strategies. The class meets on six Saturdays (in addition to outside research and coaching sessions): 3/2 (8:30-10:30am); 3/16 (8:30am-5:30pm); 4/6 (8:30am-12:30pm); 4/27 (3:00-4:30pm), 5/11 (8:30am-12:30pm); and 5/18 (8:30am-12:30pm).