When working with Design Thinking in the classroom, you can differentiate into three levels: Beginner, Advanced and Expert. These levels match the age and developmental stage of pupils aged 6 to 10 and help make the process appropriate and achievable.
Beginners work on simple, recognizable problems and receive a lot of guidance from the teacher. They often choose from a few suggested solutions and, with help, create a prototype. The emphasis is on discovery, fun and learning in steps.
Advanced learners are given more freedom to explore a problem together and come up with their own ideas. They work in small groups, choose their own materials and learn to give and receive feedback. The teacher guides them through the process with targeted questions.
Experts work independently or in teams on more complex problems closer to the real world. They combine ideas, make multiple versions of a prototype and reflect critically on their process. Here, the teacher mainly has a coaching role and provides space for creativity and ownership.