Rethinking Design Thinking

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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

  1. Introduction
    Purpose and Objectives of the Book
    Central Argument and Methodological Approach
    Who This Book Is For
    Structure of the Book
    Looking Ahead
  2. Understanding Design Thinking
    Rethinking Problem-Solving
    The Evolution of Design Thinking
    Core Principles and Mindsets
    Design Thinking as a Problem-Solving Process
    Summary
  3. The Five-Stage Design Thinking Model
    Introduction
    Overview of the Five Stages
    Summary
  4. 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
  5. 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
  6. 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
  7. 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
  8. 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
  9. 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
  10. 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
  11. Common Design Thinking Challenges and How to Overcome Them
    Navigating the Realities of Design Work
    AI Lens: Overcoming Challenges with AI
    Summary
  12. 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
  13. 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
  14. 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
  15. 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

Author(s):
Ruzlaini Ghoni
ISBN:
  • 978-629-7646-62-6 (Paperback)
Edition:
1
Publication Year:
2026
Imprint:
Sunway University Press
Pages:
128
Binding:
Paperback
Dimensions:
153 mm x 229 mm