Target Group(s)
University teachers in STEM, engineering, or management disciplines, Curriculum developers and academic coordinators, Educators introducing innovation, design thinking, or real-world challenges into their classrooms, Institutions aiming to modernize higher education through experiential learning
Product’s Aim(s)
To provide educators with a practical, replicable model for integrating Design Thinking and PBL into their syllabus, enhancing student engagement, real-world application, and development of 21st-century competencies.
Description
The Reference Model for “DT meets STEM” – Syllabus Transformation is a comprehensive manual created to help educators reimagine traditional university courses through the integration of Design Thinking (DT) and Project-Based Learning (PBL). Developed within the Teach to Be Aware Students project, this resource supports instructors in transitioning from content-focused delivery to an engaging, challenge-driven, and student-centered approach.
Using a real university course as a model, the guide includes everything from goal-setting and curriculum design to team management, evaluation, and student reflection. Whether you’re updating a course in engineering, business, or any STEM-related field, this tool equips you with a ready-to-apply transformation pathway.
Use Cases
- Redesigning existing university syllabi to include DT and PBL approaches
- Faculty development programs aiming to boost innovation in teaching
- Hands-on learning integration in courses on business process design, organizational change, or applied STEM topics
- Collaborative projects involving real firms or societal challenges
- Accreditation and quality enhancement initiatives seeking to improve employability and learning outcomess
Product Elements
- Step-by-step syllabus transformation guide, including:
- Setting SMART learning goals
- Designing meaningful, real-world challenges
- Structuring the course around DT phases: Empathize, Define, Ideate, Prototype, Test
- Embedding flexibility, experimentation, and reflection
- Updated syllabus template based on a real Master’s-level course
- Class-to-class organizational plan with weekly activities, readings, and milestones
- Student missions with descriptions, outcomes, and assessment guidelines
- Miro board templates for collaboration and project tracking
- Evaluation framework combining project performance, reflection, and exams
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