Abstract:

Project based learning (PBL) methods need collaborative, multidisciplinary and open surrounds, which enable graduate students to develop competencies related with process engineering and service design in the context of real world enterprises. Design thinking has evolved in the last years as a work methodology that allows applying design and innovation in the classroom with an integral and pedagogical focus. In a collaborative project between Universidad Politécnica de Valencia (Spain) and Universidad EAN (Colombia), project based learning method’s impact has been evaluated through a design consultancy project deployed in 20 SME’s in Colombia. This consultancy project used design methodologies and processes to diagnose and propose a roadmap to transform the companies into innovative ones. The consultancy process based on workshops, courses, talks and tutoring, allows validating the model in real cases, where the student experiments its efficacy and potential through a learning itinerary oriented on entrepreneurship projects, which triggers the creation of its own company.

Keywords:

Design Thinking, Learning Strategies, Project-Based Learning, Higher Education.