Educational Innovation in Ecuador: Impact of Design Thinking on Civic Education

The Ecuadorian education system faced the challenge of modernising its methodologies to strengthen student participation and critical understanding of issues such as democracy, human rights and citizen participation. In this context, the Design Thinking methodology was implemented as an innovative strategy to improve learning in the subject of Education for Citizenship. The study by Asanza Romero et al. (2024) analysed its application in an Ecuadorian educational institution, using a mixed approach with surveys, interviews and classroom observations. Analytical templates were designed to measure student perception and a methodological guide for teachers was produced. The results showed that Design Thinking increased motivation and facilitated a deeper understanding of civic concepts. Eighty per cent of students reported greater engagement, and 75% highlighted that the methodology allowed them to relate the content to their social reality. However, the implementation of this methodology faced obstacles such as the lack of teacher training and the digital divide (Villalta, 2023). For it to be successful, it was recommended to strengthen training in digital skills (Prendes & Castañeda, 2019) and improve access to technological resources. Design Thinking proved to be an effective tool for transforming civic education in Ecuador, promoting active and inclusive learning.