Design Thinking – Honors Academy 2027
September 2, 2026 2026-09-02 21:07Design Thinking – Honors Academy 2027
Course Available in Lima and Sao Paulo
Design Thinking: Human-Centered Approach to Innovation and Creativity
Design Thinking, an approach to innovative problem-solving born at Stanford University's renowned d.school, is transforming how challenges are approached in fields from technology and healthcare to environmental conservation and business. In this course, students will learn to use Design Thinking's structured, human-centered methodology to create impactful solutions that meet real needs. Through the six core phases, empathize, define, ideate, prototype, test, and implement, students will develop essential skills in critical thinking, collaboration, and creativity.
Used by top companies like Apple, Google, and Nike, Design Thinking has led to some of the most innovative products and solutions, from the user-friendly iPhone to life-saving medical devices and sustainable energy advancements. Working in teams, students will see firsthand how Design Thinking principles can be applied across industries to address complex problems.
This course emphasizes the power of visual communication, a skill essential for conveying ideas effectively in today's fast-paced, image-driven world. By integrating Design Thinking with visual storytelling, students will learn to create compelling visuals that reinforce memory, enhance innovation, and build a sense of community. Through hands-on projects, they will explore how these human-centered techniques not only drive innovation but also foster collaborative teamwork.
Joel Simon
Stanford University, d.school
After earning three degrees from Stanford University, including a master's in Product Design Engineering, Joel was mentored by Professor Bob McKim, a foundational figure in Design Thinking and an early influence in establishing Stanford's renowned d.school. Inspired by McKim's pioneering work, Joel has dedicated over 12 years to creating and teaching innovative curricula in Visual Literacy, Design Thinking, and Digital Imagery at Stanford University, including at the d.school. His courses engage undergraduates, alumni, and international high school students, equipping them with essential skills in creative problem-solving and human-centered design. Beyond academia, Joel collaborated with the Stanford Alumni Association to design global educational tours, and his work has been published in Vanity Fair, Sunset Magazine, The Chicago Tribune, Stanford Magazine, and The San Francisco Chronicle.
