Design thinking is a human-centred approach to problem-solving that integrates empathy, ideation, and experimentation. In PDT, it refers to the cognitive strategies and practical methods designers use to move from a design brief to communicable product concepts.
Generation is the divergent phase — the goal is quantity and variety of ideas before convergence.
Ideation techniques:
- Thumbnails/quick sketches: Rapid, low-fidelity drawings to externalise ideas without commitment to detail
- Brainstorming: Free association of ideas around a problem; judgment deferred
- Mind mapping: Visual diagram linking design brief elements to possible solutions
- Biomimicry: Drawing inspiration from natural forms and systems
- SCAMPER: Substitute, Combine, Adapt, Modify, Put to other uses, Eliminate, Rearrange — a structured ideation prompt
- Morphological analysis: Grid-based exploration of combinations of form, material, and function attributes
Graphical representation at this stage:
- Freehand pencil sketches with annotations
- Exploratory CAD models
- Material and colour swatches attached to drawings
- Perspective or isometric sketches to communicate 3D form
Refinement is the process of developing the most promising concepts in greater detail, resolving problems identified in initial sketches.
Refinement techniques:
- Annotated design options: More detailed drawings with labels explaining material, dimension, function, and ethical considerations
- Orthographic projections: First or third angle drawings showing precise dimensions
- CAD modelling: 3D digital models for visualisation, measurement, and stress analysis
- Rendering: Application of colour, texture, and shadow to communicate aesthetic intent
- Mood boards: Collections of images, materials, and colours communicating the design direction
Critique is the analytical, evaluative process of assessing concepts against the design brief and evaluation criteria.
Critique methods:
- Evaluation against criteria: Systematically score or comment on how each concept addresses each criterion
- SWOT analysis: Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats for each concept
- End-user feedback: Present concepts to intended users; gather qualitative responses
- Annotated critique: Written notes on drawings identifying problems and potential improvements
- Designer dialogue: Verbal or written justification of design decisions
Annotations are a critical communication tool in PDT. A drawing without annotations communicates form only; annotations communicate intent, material choice, manufacturing method, and ethical reasoning.
Effective annotations address:
- Material and its properties
- Construction or joining method
- Functional purpose of a feature
- Sustainability consideration
- Aesthetic rationale
KEY TAKEAWAY: Generating, refining, and critiquing concepts are sequential and iterative stages. Weak responses generate one concept and stop; strong responses show evidence of multiple ideas, refinement, and evaluative critique.
EXAM TIP: In extended response questions about design thinking, describe the method (e.g. annotated design options), what it produces (refined drawing with material notes), and why it is used (to communicate intent and evaluate against criteria).
COMMON MISTAKE: Students describe ‘drawing’ as a single activity. VCAA distinguishes between thumbnail ideation, design options, working drawings, and CAD — each has a specific purpose and level of detail.
