Development of a D-PBL Model for Design Education in the Digital Transformation Era

This study proposes the Design integrated Problem-Based Learning (D-PBL) model to foster creative problem-solving and user-centered thinking in the digital transformation era. Digital technologies have revealed limitations of traditional lecture-based methods, highlighting the need for structured learning and self-directed exploration. The D-PBL model integrates core design thinking principles—reframing, empathy, divergent and convergent thinking, prototyping, and reflection—into a five-stage process using Constructive Alignment and CCCS principles. Implemented in a “Design Thinking Methodology” course, students explored problems, refined solutions through multi-layered feedback, and collaborated using digital tools. Results demonstrate improvements in creative thinking and digital collaboration skills, confirming the model's effectiveness as a design education framework.