Game Changer Challenge
Design thinking is a human-centred approach to solving complex problems. Empathy and collaboration are at the heart of design thinking. The five step process starts by encouraging problem solvers to walk in the shoes of those experiencing the problem to gain a deeper insight into the challenges and issues they face (empathy). This knowledge is then used to develop a clear problem statement (define), work on solutions (ideate), turn these solutions into tangible products (prototype) and then see whether the solution will work (test). Design thinking brings our head, heart and hands together to find innovative solutions to complex problems.
Game Changer Challenge teams are required to create a short video explaining their understanding of the wicked problem and detailing a possible solution. A panel of judges watches hundreds of videos from all around the state to select regional finalists. At the regional finals, teams are challenged to develop their idea before pitching it to a new panel of judges, 'shark tank' style. Successful regional finalists are then invited to the state final in Sydney to take park in a three day design thinking deep-dive before pitching again in front of an audience in the hundreds.
Ever since the Game Changer Final was launched in 2018, Alstonville Public School has performed exceptionally well:
2018 - What will schools of the future look like? State finalists.
2020 - How might we use technology to bring everybody in our community closer together? State finalists.
2022 - We have a global challenge of ensuring healthy lives for all, at all ages. State finalists.
2024 - Make life better for all without harming the planet. State finalists.
2019 - How might we humanise technology? State champions.
2021 - Humans have unlimited needs but the planet has limited capacity to satisfy them. Regional finalists.
2023 - Invent or innovate something that will change our world and leave a lasting impact. State finalists and design award winners.