METHOD

Idea Hacking

Students select elements from existing solutions and combine them in new ways to create a unique and innovative solution.

The method inspires students to think creatively and apply elements from familiar solutions to develop new ideas, solutions, and perspectives.

1

Students explore existing solutions relevant to their challenge or project. This can include well-known companies, products, or concepts that address other or similar problems.

2

Students select key elements or ideas from the existing solutions that they find inspiring, effective, or interesting. These elements are noted or visualized, for example on post-its or on the worksheet Future Puzzle (not translated)

3

Students experiment with combining the selected elements. They can ask themselves:

  • How can we take the best parts from different solutions?

  • Which elements can be improved or adapted to our needs?

  • Can we modify the elements to create something new?

4

Based on their experiments, the students choose a combination they want to develop further.

Didactic tips:

  • Give students time to brainstorm using questions like:
    “What could we improve in this solution?” or “How can we transfer this element to our own idea?” Use, for example, the Brainstorming method.
  • Optionally, let students visualize their process, for instance by using the Model Drawing method to show how they combined the elements.
  • Introduce a limitation or framework, such as “combine three elements,” to make the task more focused and manageable.
  • Optionally, combine with the Future Dreams method to broaden students’ perspectives after they have hacked their solution.
  • This method is used, among others, in activity XXX
Tags: Combining, hacking
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MODES OF ORGANISATION:

  • Individual
  • Pair
  • Group

TOOLS / MATERIALS:

  • Texts, images, videos, or descriptions of existing solutions

  • Paper, post-its, or digital tools for notes and sketches