Human-centered design (HCD) is a critical component of each Ignite course, program, and student. This model is designed to improve critical thinking and creative problem-solving skills, in addition to the engineering skills needed to bring an idea from sketch to prototype. During the “empathize” and “define” phases, students engage directly with their peers to understand local community needs regarding a challenge directly related to the SDGs. In the “ideate” and “prototype” phases, students work in teams to brainstorm solutions and use feedback to iterate on their designs. In the “deliver” phase, students present their prototypes to the school and special guests, like a science fair.
Each Ignite program, regardless of topic, uses human-centered design to empathize with a community's need and move potential ideas into solutions.