Develop and Design StartUp SchoolLaajuus (2 cr)

Learning objectives

After completing the course, the student:
understands the phases of Design Thinking and how they are used to develop services and environments.
is able to identify user needs relevant to international students and connect them to the development of Startup School.
can apply human-centered design tools, such as interviews, need mapping and ideation techniques, in the development process.
is able to work collaboratively in a multicultural team to co-create service solutions.
can visualize and pitch a service concept aimed at improving the international student experience at Startup School.
is able to reflect on their teamwork, own learning and the design process.

Contents

Introduction to Design Thinking and entrepreneurial mindset
Team formation and trust-building activities
Field assignments and user research (e.g. scavenger hunt, interviews)
Ideation and co-creation workshops
Cultural analysis and empathy-building exercises
Prototyping and testing ideas
Final pitch to Startup School core team

Starting level and linkage with other courses

No formal prerequisites. Recommended for students interested in entrepreneurship, design thinking, service design or internationalization. Suitable for cross-disciplinary learning.

Implementation methods, demonstration and Work&Study

CONTACT (main method)
Process based on Design Thinking methodology
Teamwork in small groups
Evaluation by Startup School colleagues and mentors during the final pitch session

Assessment criteria, approved/failed

When the implementation type of the course is CONTACT, ONLINE or BLENDED it is required that the student is present during those teaching hours that are marked in the study schedule. If you are absent more than 25 %, your grade will be lowered by one. If you are absent more than 50 %, the course is failed.

Assessment: Pass / Fail
Pass criteria:
Active participation in sessions and teamwork
Completion of individual and team assignments
Final pitch delivery and presentation of a developed solution
Reflection tasks completed
Student is present in class over 50% of the time

Learning materials

Lecture slides, articles, case examples and tools provided by instructors
Service design and design thinking online resources
Peer and facilitator feedback

Further information

Students will work in teams to develop ideas on "How do we design a Startup School that has the most inclusive and supportive atmosphere / culture for international students."
Example assignments include:
Collecting user insights from the city and campus
Comparing Finland and students' home countries
Ideating and prototyping solutions for Startup School
Pitching the final concept to a professional jury
Team evaluation