PRO: Lesson - Design Process

Image: a graphic that says Design with several line drawingsDesign Process

When we explored the Design Process earlier, we laid out seven detailed steps to problem solving. In this lesson, we will review a different type of design process model. In this model, let’s reduce the seven steps to four steps:

  • Step One: Define - Identify the problem
  • Step Two: Prepare - Brainstorm and research
  • Step Three: Try - Create draft or prototype and test it
  • Step Four: Reflect - Think back on what worked well and what did not. Are any modifications needed?

Video Lesson

Let’s see how this all breaks down. Please watch the following video and take notes on the content.

Using the Model

Think for a moment: what are ways in which you can use this process in your daily life? Remember, the design process can be utilized to create technological advances as well as solve daily problems.

Self Check

Note: this is not a graded assignment, but rather a chance for you to think more about applying this design model.

Utilizing the 4-step design process, create an idea or prototype that will modify the current way that computers represent data and media (sounds, images, video, etc.). Remember that any device with a microprocessor could be considered a type of computer (i.e. smartphone, smartwatch, tablet, vehicle computer system, etc.)

Based on your idea, create a graphic in your notes that describes your idea/model/prototype. In your description, explain:

  • what problem your idea will solve
  • how users interact with it

RESOURCES IN THIS MODULE ARE OPEN EDUCATIONAL RESOURCES (OER) OR CREATED BY GAVS UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED. SOME IMAGES USED UNDER SUBSCRIPTION.