An easy-to-use framework for teaching students how to solve complex, real world problems

What is it about?

This paper presents a novel experiential problem-solving methodology for tackling complex real-world challenges. The method transforms the classroom into a consulting firm, where participants perform several research cycles in teams to investigate the root causes of a problem, then re-form into different groups to find solutions, eventually consolidating their chosen solutions into a plan of action. Key to the method is the jigsaw transposition from research to solving teams, which ensures a comprehensive understanding of the problem and diversity of perspectives in the solution phase. The method is designed for a live client, making it particularly suitable for capstone, strategy, consulting, design thinking, and business architecture courses. Participant and client feedback indicates deep learning and practical, relevant solutions achieved through the method. It can be adopted beyond classrooms, for cross-disciplinary challenges in various sectors.

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Photo by Annie Spratt on Unsplash

Photo by Annie Spratt on Unsplash

Why is it important?

The world is becoming increasingly interesting, complex, global, dynamic, time-constrained, and competitive. Thankfully, through the use of an ever-expanding myriad of digital tools, the world has the potential to become increasingly social, cooperative, informed, and efficient. The 3-Step Charrette is a fun and simple-to-apply methodology that enables diverse groups of people to work together to quickly solve very complex problems. It enables the whole to be much more than the sum of the parts.

Perspectives