1. Design Thinking for Diverse Learners
STEAM INFUSED PROJECTS
(Science | Technology | Engineering | Art | Mathematics)
Dr. Mandi Sonnenberg
F.I.R.E. Conference, February 24, 2016, Kansas City

2. Life is Challenging, that’s good!
Because…
Real-world learning and preparation.
Getting comfortable with struggling and confident with moving past it.
Enjoying LIFE!

3. Stats on our special learners
They are on the rise
dia/chart-us-special-education- enrollment.html

4. Why Design Thinking?
Because it is CREATIVE!
Learner’s can express their knowledge in different ways and produce individually diverse outcomes.
Why creativity is important:
“Human beings are essentially born creative–from infancy on we find innovative ways to negotiate life. The most creative people find ways around obstacles because they see them not just as roadblocks but also as opportunities.”
Who are the most creative humans we know? Kids with special needs, because they have to be and it’s who they are.

5. What is it?

6. Let’s Try This Out! Gumdrop lesson vs Design Thinking Challenge!
Typical Lesson: reInquiryChallenge%20-%20Copy.pdf
Design Thinking: 81QX9_yMcT4wmKEfI84MfQqBtz0/edit?usp=sharing
NOTE:

7. How does tech play a role?
TECHNOLOGY IS A TOOL…A RESOURCE. IT IS NOT HUMAN.

8. Innovative ways STEAM project support our special youth!
kids-with-special-needs/

9. Questions, thoughts, comments?
How will you transform your lessons and activities into using the Design Thinking Process?