STEMAzing_M2.3

2. Critical thinking and problem solving in STEM

Module 2.3. Problem solving in STEM

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Module 2.3 Problem solving in STEM

Introduction

Unit 1: Thinking styles

Unit 2: Introduction to Design Thinking

Unit 3: Application of Design Thinking

Unit 4: Sustainable Development Goals

References

Assessment quiz

Introduction

In this module, you will become familiar with problem solving skills and its practical application in STEM fields. The highlights of the module are:

• Convergent and divergent thinking styles
• Design Thinking
• Social Development Goals (SDG)

Unit 1. Thinking styles

We all have different strategies to approach work or life related problems. Problem solving is the ability to identify, analyze, and resolve them effectively and efficiently.

Thinking styles

You may find that your mind follows a particular pattern or that you prefer a certain type of thinking in different situations. To help you understand your thinking style and how to change it, here are 2 common thinking styles to consider: convergent thinking and divergent thinking.

“Convergent vs. Divergent Thinking” Quiz

Unit 2. Introduction to Design Thinking

To accomplish personal and professional goals, it is always helpful to use different thinking styles (creative thinking, critical thinking and design thinking). Design Thinking is especially valuable because it allows us to innovate, solve complex problems, and create meaningful experiences that resonate with people. Additionally, it fosters a culture of creativity, collaboration, and continuous improvement, driving positive outcomes for businesses and society as a whole

Design Thinking Stages

Stage 5: Test

Stage 4: Prototype

Stage 3. Ideate

Stage 2. Define

Stage 1. Emphasize

Design Thinking Stages - Quizz

Unit 3. Application of Design Thinking

The Design thinking model applies to STEM as it requires discipline knowledge from each of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics to ideate, design a prototype, test the prototype and come up with a possible solution. Thus, Design Thinking can be used both in business, education and science (Carmona-Vickery, n.d.).

Design thinking - Clue Game I

Design thinking - Clue game II

Design thinking - Clue game III

Unit 4. Sustanaible Development Goals

STEM education plays a crucial role in preparing global society for addressing worldwide challenges of globalization, digitalization, poverty, climate change among many others. We are in need of a roadmap that can help us build a sustainable, resilient and equitable world, which is provided by the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) framework.

Sustainable Development Goals (SDG)

Set by the United Nations in 2015, Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) also known as “The Global Goals” are a collection of 17 goals that are aimed at addressing various global social, economic, and environmental challenges (United Nations, n.d.). In order to achieve these goals by 2030, we need to collectively make investments and contribute to cooperation at the global, national, and local levels.

Source: United Nations. (n.d.). The 17 Goals. United Nations Sustainable Development. From https://sdgs.un.org/goals

Inspirational reading Adidas Swimwear

Adidas has taken significant steps to address environmental issues such as plastic pollution. One of their initiatives involved creating swimwear made from recycled ocean plastic. Adidas introduced its "Parley for the Oceans" initiative, a collaboration with the environmental organization Parley for the Oceans, with the aim of raising awareness about ocean pollution and finding innovative solutions to tackle it. As part of this initiative, Adidas began producing a line of swimwear made from recycled ocean plastic. The plastic used in the swimwear is collected from beaches and coastal areas, then cleaned and processed to create a high-quality material suitable for swimwear. The swimwear not only helps to reduce the amount of plastic pollution in the oceans but also serves as a tangible reminder of the importance of environmental sustainability. Adidas has also expanded its use of recycled ocean plastic to other products, including shoes and clothing, further demonstrating its commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility.

Source: Dezeen. (2017, February 2). Adidas and Parley for the Oceans unveil recycled plastic swimwear collection. Dezeen. https://www.dezeen.com/2017/02/02/adidas-parley-for-the-oceans-unveil-recycled-plastic-swimwear-collection/

References I

Brooks, M. (2023, September 11). Convergent vs Divergent Thinking: The Creative Path. Creative Primer. [Webpage]. Retrieved from https://creativeprimer.com/convergent-vs-divergent-thinking/ Carmona-Vickery, N. (Speaker) (n.d.). What is Design Thinking? Monash University. [Video]. Retrieved from https://www.monash.edu/stem-education/digital-classroom/exploring-stem/what-is-design-thinking Dam, R. F. and Teo, Y. S. (2024, February 21). What is Design Thinking and Why Is It So Popular? Interaction Design Foundation - IxDF. [Journal Article]. https://www.interaction-design.org/literature/article/what-is-design-thinking-and-why-is-it-so-popular Mayka, K. (n.d.). Design Thinking Examples: Five Real Stories. Eleken. [Webpage]. https://www.eleken.co/blog-posts/design-thinking-examples-five-real-stories

References II

Miller, B.H. (2017, September 5). What is Design Thinking? (And What Are The 5 Stages Associated With it?). Medium. [Webpage]. https://medium.com/@bhmiller0712/what-is-design-thinking-and-what-are-the-5-stages-associated-with-it-d628152cf220 United Nations. (n.d.). The 17 Goals. United Nations Sustainable Development. [Webpage]. https://sdgs.un.org/goals

Module assessment quiz

Let's see what you've learnt. Just 8 questions and you'll finish this module! Shall we begin?

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You finished the module 2.3

Continue to the module 2.4