This course introduces students to the Design Thinking (DT) methodology as a human-centered framework for creative problem-solving. Rather than just learning the theory, students will apply the full DT process (empathize, define, ideate, prototype, test) hands-on to a real-world challenge brought in by an external project partner.

A distinctive feature of this course is the deliberate comparison of AI-powered and manual tools within the DT process. At the kick-off session, students will be introduced to a curated set of both AI-based and traditional tools, which they will actively experiment with and compare throughout the course. Students will systematically document and reflect on how AI-supported and traditional methods influence their decision-making, creativity, and problem-solving process throughout the project. The aim is to develop a nuanced understanding of what AI can and cannot replace in a human-centered design process.

The course concludes with a final presentation in which each team presents their full DT journey: problem framing, process reflections, tool comparisons, and proposed solution.

The course aims to enable students to apply the Design Thinking methodology to real-world challenges in a structured and user-centered way. By the end of the course, students will be able to:

• Understand and apply the key phases of the Design Thinking process (Empathize, Define, Ideate, Prototype, and Test)
• Identify user needs and translate insights into problem definitions and solution concepts
• Develop, prototype, and iteratively refine innovative solutions to real-world challenges
• Critically compare AI-powered and traditional tools throughout the Design Thinking process and evaluate their respective strengths and limitations
• Collaborate effectively in interdisciplinary teams and communicate design processes and outcomes in a professional manner to an external stakeholder
• Reflect on their own problem-solving approach and the role of human and AI contributions in innovation and design processes

To successfully complete the course, students must attend at least 80% of the course sessions in total (calculated across the entire course).

On the 9th November we will do an external field trip (more information during the kick-off 06.11.)

Two coaching sessions (approx. 1 hour per Team) will be offered. 

• 18.11.26 (with external expert)
• 02.12.26

Active participation in discussions and group work is essential due to the interactive nature of the course. 

• Teaching and discussion of theoretical basics, for example:
  • Introduction to the Design Thinking methodology 
  • Introduction to AI-based and manual tools 
  • Input from external expert(s)
• Hands-on, team-based application of the full DT process
• Structured process documentation and guided reflection at each stage
• Coaching sessions with feedback from the lecturers
• Final team presentation of process and results
• Structured reflection on AI-supported vs. traditional Design Thinking approaches

Grading system

50% in-class participation (individual performance)

30% final presentation (group-based performance)

20% process documentation (group-based performance)

Students enrolled in the Entrepreneurship and Innovation Specialization Program.
Please note that course registration is binding.
Once you register for a course, it counts as a firm commitment to attend. Therefore, only join the waiting list for courses you can actually attend. After the add/drop period, transfers to other courses are not possible under any circumstances, as this would be unfair to other students who may have been unable to secure a place due to your registration.

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