Towards a framework for introducing design thinking into the work of an HE professional

Abstract

Institutional approaches to co-creation are shifting away from directive methods to more active and participatory design approaches. New tools for problem solving such as design thinking are becoming increasingly popular in universities. Leveraged incorrectly, they often risk excluding parts of the community. Effective implementation requires more inclusive approaches where all parties are equal partners. This paper presents the experience of co-creating and testing an institutional framework for design-led co-creation that empowers all members of the university community. We outline the experience of the Designing Together project, co-created with students for staff and academic development; and the co-design of the Education and Student Experience strategy, co-led by academic staff, commissioned and sponsored by professional services. In doing so, we share practical considerations for working with design thinking. We leave the reader with the University of Warwick’s emerging design thinking framework and our reflections on the next steps.