Apply design thinking methods and abilities to ocean problems

Oceans by Design is an experiential course developed to apply human-centered design thinking to ocean solutions that combat illegal fishing, manage marine protected areas, enable small scale fishers, and support ocean researchers. In this class, students will work in multi-disciplinary teams to develop design questions, identify users, interview experts and stakeholders, and prototype and test ideas. Class activities and themes range from empathy interviews and designing for inclusivity for subsistence fishers to prototyping policy and simulating high seas treaty negotiations at the United Nations. In addition, students will participate in activities focused on understanding emerging technologies such as machine learning and virtual reality. At the end of the course, student teams will present their ideas that support research priorities at the Stanford Center for Ocean Solutions to the class, partners, and potential users.

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Teaching Team