Can computers assist design students to develop their creative minds?

Abstract

This study investigates how computers can assist design students in learning creative thinking methodologies in tertiary design education. It explores possible ways of using Information Communication Technology (ICT) tools in facilitating students' creative process. An action research cycle has been adopted to design, create and readjust pedagogical methods as well as the implementation of online learning activities in teaching and learning creative thinking. It aims to bring "change" to conventional pedagogy in design thinking and other design subjects. The investigation found out that ICT tools could assist design students in enriching their creative resources, organizing creative thoughts and reducing their anxieties during the learning process. The computer-aided pedagogical methods also facilitated the communication between students-to-students and students-to-teacher within online environment.