Module 4

 

Design-Based Learning Backwards Thinking Process

Step 1: What do I Want to Teach?

Today, you’ll continue your journey into Design-Based Learning™ by exploring the first two essential steps of Doreen Nelson’s framework—“What Do I Want to Teach?” and “Identify a Problem & Frame a Never-Before-Seen Challenge.”

Here’s what you’ll explore:

• How to choose a meaningful theme that sparks creativity in young learners

• The importance of starting with imagination, not information

• How to guide children in uncovering real-world problems using techniques like the 5 Whys and Idea Mapping

• How to frame playful, open-ended challenges using the “What If?” strategy

• The evolving roles of teachers and students in a Design-Based Learning™ environment

• Practical tips and classroom strategies to support deep thinking and exploration through design

Instructions

Watch the video and/or read the article provided. While doing so, take notes to help you process the key ideas. Then, complete the tasks and/or answer the questions that follow.

The first step in Doreen Nelson’s Design-Based Learning™ framework is selecting a concept or theme that students will explore through design. Unlike traditional teaching methods that rely on lectures and memorization, this approach transforms learning into a creative challenge.

 Reframing Content as a Challenge

Consider the concept of sustainability. Instead of simply asking students to define it or memorize its principles, pose a big, imaginative challenge:

“Design a self-sufficient city that can thrive in the future.”

This question instantly shifts the classroom energy. Students begin to think critically, collaborate, and apply knowledge from various subjects, including science, technology, and social studies. They’re not just learning—they’re designing real-world solutions.

Examples of Themes from Different Subjects

To illustrate how various themes can be integrated into design-based learning, consider the following examples:

Ø Science:

·         Theme: Renewable Energy

·         Challenge: “Create a community that runs entirely on renewable energy sources.”

Ø Mathematics:

·   Theme: Geometry in Architecture

·   Challenge: “Design a unique building using geometric shapes and principles of symmetry.”

Ø Social Studies:

·   Theme: Historical Civilizations

·   Challenge: “Design a new city based on the principles of an ancient civilization, considering their societal structures and innovations.”

Ø Literature:

·   Theme: Storytelling and Narrative

·   Challenge: “Create a theme park that represents the key themes and characters from a chosen novel.”

Ø Art:

·   Theme: Cultural Expression

·   Challenge: “Design an art installation that reflects the cultural heritage of a specific community.”

What’s the Role of the Teacher?

In this model, the teacher steps away from being the sole source of knowledge and becomes a facilitator who guides students toward discovery. Here’s how:

·   Ask Open-Ended Questions: Spark curiosity and encourage critical thinking.

·   Encourage Idea Generation: Allow students to come up with their own ideas rather than providing solutions.

·   Introduce Real-World Examples: Use case studies to deepen understanding and contextualize learning.

Instead of controlling the lesson's direction, teachers support exploration—nudging without overstepping.

 

What’s the Role of the Students?

Students become active participants and young designers of knowledge. Their role is to ask questions, make connections, and think big.

·   Explore Creative Possibilities: Go beyond the textbook to envision innovative solutions.

·   Link Ideas Across Subjects: Integrate concepts from multiple disciplines to form well-rounded solutions.

·   Take Creative Risks: Embrace the idea that there are no wrong answers in design thinking.

For instance, one student might ask, “Can we make buildings out of algae?” while another wonders, “What if cities floated to adapt to sea-level rise?” These questions are not off-topic; they are gateways to innovation.

 

Actionable Tips for Teachers

To make this step truly effective, consider these three strategies:

1.      Start with Broad, Thought-Provoking Questions:

• Examples: What makes a city sustainable? What are the biggest challenges cities face today?

2.      Incorporate Real-World Case Studies:

• Use examples like Masdar City in the UAE or vertical farming in Singapore to ignite ideas and inspire creativity.

3.      Empower Students to Frame Their Own ‘Big Questions’:

• Allow them to choose aspects they are passionate about, such as waste reduction, clean energy, or transportation systems.

Why It Works

When students are presented with a compelling, real-world challenge, their motivation soars. They don’t just “learn about” sustainability—they become changemakers designing a sustainable future.

By reframing your lesson topic as a challenge, you lay the foundation for deep engagement, authentic problem-solving, and cross-curricular learning. This approach not only enhances understanding but also fosters a sense of ownership and agency in students, empowering them to think critically and creatively in a rapidly changing world.

Discussion Questions (10 Points)

Instructions:

Engage in the Discussion:
Reflect on what you’ve learned from this session by answering the discussion prompts below. After posting your response, read through your peers’ contributions and share your thoughts by commenting on at least one of them. Your answer should be around 150 words.

Discussion Question:

What specific concepts or themes from your subject area could you reframe as design challenges for your students?

Your answer should include the following points:

1. Selected Concept or Theme: Identify a specific concept or theme from your subject area.

2. Proposed Design Challenge: Describe how you would frame this concept as a design-based challenge.

3. Cross-Disciplinary Connections: Discuss any connections to other subjects or disciplines that could enhance the challenge.

4. Anticipated Student Engagement: Explain how this approach could engage your students and foster creativity.

Write your response in the comments section below. When appropriate, read your colleagues’ responses and provide thoughtful comments or constructive feedback to enrich the discussion.