Creative and Adaptive Problem-Solving in the AI Era
Rethinking Design Thinking: Creative and Adaptive Problem-Solving in the AI Era introduces a structured yet practical approach that helps readers understand problems, generate innovative ideas, develop prototypes, and evaluate solutions effectively. Written as a step-by-step resource, this book explains how design thinking can be applied in academic research, innovation projects, and real-world decision making.
The ability to solve complex problems creatively and systematically in a world increasingly shaped by AI is now more important than ever. By integrating human-centred thinking with the possibilities of AI, this book equips readers with practical tools to transform ideas into meaningful and impactful solutions.
List of Figures
List of Tables
Foreword
Preface
Acknowledgements
- Introduction
Purpose and Objectives of the Book
Central Argument and Methodological Approach
Who This Book Is For
Structure of the Book
Looking Ahead - Understanding Design Thinking
Rethinking Problem-Solving
The Evolution of Design Thinking
Core Principles and Mindsets
Design Thinking as a Problem-Solving Process
Summary - The Five-Stage Design Thinking Model
Introduction
Overview of the Five Stages
Summary - Empathise: Discovering Real Needs
Overview
The Heart of Human-Centred Innovation
Why Empathy Matters in Academic Problem-Solving
Methods of Empathy Building
Tools for Deep Empathy
Guidelines for Student Engagement
AI Lens: Empathise with AI
Summary - Define: Framing the Right Problem
From Observations to Clarity
The Importance of Problem Framing in Research
and Projects
Synthesising Empathy Findings
Constructing the Point-of-View Statement
Crafting “How Might We” Questions
AI Lens: Define with AI
Summary - Ideate: Generating Creative Possibilities
Unlocking the Power of Possibility
Purpose of Ideation in Academic Contexts
Divergent and Convergent Thinking
Structured Ideation Techniques
Using Constraints to Spark Innovation
Prioritising Ideas: From Abundance to Action
AI Lens: Ideate with AI
Summary - Prototype: Making Ideas Tangible
From Abstract to Real
Why Prototyping Matters in Design Thinking
Fidelity Levels: Choosing the Right Resolution
Common Forms of Student Prototypes
Prototyping Mindset: Build to Think
Prototyping in Academic Work
AI Lens: Prototype with AI
Summary - Test: Learning from Feedback
Feedback as Forward Motion
The Purpose of Testing in Design Thinking
Preparing for the Test
Common Testing Methods
Capturing Feedback Effectively
Interpreting Feedback: Iteration, Not Validation
Documenting Testing for Academic Purposes
AI Lens: Test with AI
Summary - Design Thinking for Academic Projects
A Framework for Academic Relevance
The Role of Design Thinking in Undergraduate and Postgraduate Work
Mapping the Design Thinking Process to Academic Deliverables
Planning Academic Projects Using Design Thinking
Facilitating Group Collaboration
Integrating Documentation and Reflection
AI Lens: Academic Projects with AI
Summary - Cross-Disciplinary Applications of Design Thinking
A Universal Framework for Innovation
The Value of Cross-Disciplinary Design Thinking
Applications in Engineering, Business, and Social Sciences
Techniques for Integrating Design Thinking Across Disciplines
Mapping Stakeholders Across Disciplines
Common Challenges in Cross-Disciplinary Work
AI Lens: Cross-Disciplinary Work with AI
Summary - Common Design Thinking Challenges and How to Overcome Them
Navigating the Realities of Design Work
AI Lens: Overcoming Challenges with AI
Summary - Integrating AI in Design Thinking
Reimagining Design Thinking in the Age of AI
The Role of AI in Enhancing Design Thinking
AI Integration Across Design Thinking Stages
Ethical Considerations in AI-Augmented
Design Thinking
Summary - Future Trends and Preparing for the Unknown
Design as a Strategic Lifelong Competency
The Shift from Product Thinking to Systems Thinking
Designing for Sustainability and Regenerative Futures
Embracing Emerging Technologies
Preparing Students for Ambiguity and Complexity
Building Innovation Capacity Beyond Graduation
AI Lens: Future Thinking with AI
Summary - A Real-World Example with AI
Empathise: Understanding the User’s Digital Fatigue
Define: Framing the Problem Clearly
Ideate: Exploring Creative Possibilities
Prototype: Making It Real
Test: Learning from Feedback
Reflection and Iteration
Key Takeaways - Bonus Chapter: Real Problem-Solving Using Design Thinking Across Diverse Fields
Overview
Universal Framework, Local Relevance
Social Sciences: Redesigning Public Participation
Data Security: Phishing Awareness
Engineering: Reducing Lab Equipment Downtime
Mechatronics: Automating Fan Control with ESP32
Electrical Engineering: Vibration Energy Harvesting
Chemical Engineering: Natural Odour-Absorbing Material
Manufacturing and Automation: Paddy Processing Machine Automation
Computer Science: SME Business Webpage
Graphic Media: SME Packaging Redesign
Language and Literature: Reviving Reading Interest
Among Teens
Conclusion
Bibliography
Index
Ruzlaini Ghoni is an engineering academic, researcher, and author specialising in research methodology, innovation, and AI literacy. She has authored several research and STEM books, including Mahir Penyelidikan: Mudah dan Pantas, recipient of the National Book Awards.
Basic Information
- 978-629-7646-62-6 (Paperback)

