Reflections on the impact of design thinking in processes of formation and research in design

This work presents a reflection on the use of design thinking in teaching and learning processes, in disciplines related with design. It presents a methodological proposal to complement design thinking with project-based learning and immersion in research processes. To have more elements of discussion, an experience with learners of the Technology Program in Design, from the Design and Leather Manufacturing Center at SENA took place, for whom was proposed the launch of a brand for neotraditional users. The learners considered enriching the opportunity to examine the solutions of design in a direct way with the users and to detect their needs, by collecting information in time real, with which they developed prototypes to be evaluated with the users. The application of design thinking confirmed positive results previously raised in the literature, but it also involved changes in the way the organization tackles the processes of training in design-related programs. Also a proposal for the use of design thinking to impact the investigative activity in the center of training is presented.