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How Oracle-Backed d.tech High School Sets a New Standard for Educating through Design Thinking

In an era where traditional education methods are increasingly being questioned, Design Tech High School (d.tech) has emerged as a pioneering model for advanced, forward thinking pedagogy. Located in Redwood Shores, California, this innovative public charter school is redefining the high school experience by embracing a student-centered, project based approach that puts creativity, critical thinking, and real-world problem-solving at the heart of its curriculum. In this article, we explore the unique educational strategies of d.tech and unveil the transformative power of its methodologies, offering insights into how this groundbreaking model is shaping the future of education.


Design Tech High School
By Silliest - Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=73892511

“Our mission is to empower students to develop creative confidence and the skills necessary to navigate an ever-changing world,” says Ken Montgomery, co-founder and Executive Director of d.tech. Montgomery, an experienced educator and a thought leader in the design thinking movement, has dedicated his career to transforming education through innovative practices. He previously co-founded The Henry Ford Learning Institute, where he implemented project-based learning models that inspired the d.tech approach. “We want to move beyond the traditional model of compliance-based education,” adds Montgomery. “Our focus is on cultivating a mindset of curiosity and resilience, where students see themselves as capable of solving real-world problems.”


This philosophy of fostering creative confidence and adaptability is the driving force behind d.tech’s approach, setting it apart as a role model for schools looking to innovate and better prepare students for the complexities of the modern world. The school’s unique approach emphasizes real-world problem-solving, encouraging students to engage deeply with their learning material. This methodology not only fosters critical thinking but also prepares students to tackle complex challenges beyond the classroom.


Design Realization Garage

A cornerstone of d.tech’s innovative environment is the Design Realization Garage (DRG), a state-of-the-art makerspace that serves as the school’s creative hub. This expansive, two-story, 6,000-square-foot facility is equipped with advanced tools and technologies, including 3D printers, laser cutters, CNC machines, and woodworking equipment. It’s a space where theory meets practice, enabling students to turn their ideas into tangible prototypes and projects. Here, the boundaries of traditional education dissolve as students take charge of their learning, driven by curiosity and the desire to create something new.


Design Realization Garage
Source: d.tech

“The Design Realization Garage is where students’ creativity meets real-world application,” explains Nicole Cerra, co-founder and Director of Learning at d.tech. “It’s a space where they can prototype solutions, iterate on their designs, and learn through hands-on experience.” This hands-on, project-based approach is central to d.tech’s mission of nurturing innovation and problem-solving skills, reflecting the very essence of Silicon Valley’s entrepreneurial spirit.


Cultivating the Silicon Valley Mindset


The Design Realization Garage embodies the spirit of Silicon Valley, known globally as the epicenter of technology and innovation. By integrating elements of the region’s startup culture, d.tech is instilling in its students the mindset needed to thrive in the rapidly evolving innovation job market. In the DRG, students learn to embrace the core values of Silicon Valley—experimentation, risk-taking, and a relentless drive for improvement. Failure is not viewed as a setback but as a stepping stone to success, much like in the startup world.


Silicon Valley Spirit
Source: d.tech

Students are encouraged to think like entrepreneurs, identifying problems, developing prototypes, and pitching their ideas. The process is iterative, reflecting the lean startup methodology commonly practiced in the tech industry. In one recent project, a team of students identified an issue with the school’s recycling program. They quickly brainstormed a solution, built a prototype for an automated sorting bin using sensors and Arduino microcontrollers, and presented their project to a panel of educators and local entrepreneurs. This kind of real-world problem-solving experience prepares students for the kind of rapid innovation and adaptability required in today’s tech-driven job market.


Building Skills for the Innovation Economy


The makerspace also plays a crucial role in developing a broad skill set that goes beyond traditional academics. Students gain hands-on experience with cutting-edge technologies such as 3D modeling software, robotics, and electronics. These technical skills are complemented by essential soft skills, including teamwork, leadership, and project management. By collaborating on complex, interdisciplinary projects, students learn to work effectively in diverse teams, a key attribute for success in the tech industry.


Design challenges
Source: d.tech

Students regularly participate in design challenges and hackathons, events designed to simulate the fast-paced, high-pressure environment of a startup. These challenges often involve creating a prototype within a limited timeframe, pushing students to apply their technical knowledge and think creatively under time constraints. By engaging in these activities, students develop resilience and adaptability—traits that are highly sought after by employers in the innovation economy.


Preparing Students for the Future of Work


The Design Realization Garage is more than just a makerspace; it’s a launchpad for future innovators, a place where students can explore their interests and develop the competencies required for the jobs of tomorrow. By instilling a startup culture and teaching students to embrace a growth mindset, d.tech is preparing its graduates to be flexible, creative thinkers who are ready to tackle the challenges of a rapidly changing world.


Design Realization Garage
Source: d.tech

The impact of this approach is already being felt, as many d.tech alumni go on to pursue careers in technology, engineering, and design. They enter college and the workforce not just with a strong academic foundation, but with the practical experience, confidence, and entrepreneurial mindset that set them apart in a competitive job market. In a world where innovation is key, the Design Realization Garage is giving d.tech students a head start, equipping them with the skills and mindset needed to thrive in the innovation economy.


Oracle Partnership

In 2018, d.tech entered into a groundbreaking partnership with Oracle Corporation, marking a significant milestone in the school’s journey. The relocation of d.tech’s campus to Oracle’s headquarters in Redwood Shores was a bold move that underscored a shared vision: bridging the gap between education and industry. By placing students in close proximity to one of the world’s leading technology companies, the collaboration has provided d.tech students with unprecedented access to industry professionals, cutting-edge resources, and real-world learning experiences that go far beyond traditional classroom boundaries.


“By integrating d.tech into our campus, we’re fostering a new generation of innovators,” remarks Larry Ellison, co-founder of Oracle. “These students are not just learning about technology; they’re applying it in ways that will shape the future.” Ellison’s support for the partnership highlights Oracle’s commitment to nurturing talent and investing in the next generation of thinkers and creators. He adds, “It’s about giving students the chance to work alongside Oracle engineers, to experience firsthand what it means to solve complex problems in a real business environment. This isn’t just about education; it’s about preparing them to lead in a rapidly changing world.”


Larry Elisson
Larry Elisson (Source: Wikipedia)

The synergy between d.tech and Oracle has become a model of forward-thinking education-industry collaboration. Through this partnership, Oracle engineers have taken an active role in mentoring d.tech students, offering guidance on projects and sharing their expertise in various fields, from software development to product design. Students regularly engage with engineers during workshops and special sessions, where they receive feedback on their prototypes and gain valuable insights into the design and development process. This direct interaction with industry professionals has been instrumental in enhancing the students’ technical skills, giving them a taste of what it’s like to work in a high-stakes, innovation-driven environment.


One of the most impactful aspects of the partnership is the internship program at Oracle, where d.tech students have the opportunity to work on real projects alongside Oracle employees. These internships are not limited to shadowing; students are given meaningful tasks and responsibilities, allowing them to contribute directly to ongoing projects. For instance, a group of d.tech students recently collaborated with Oracle engineers on a data analytics project, learning how to use advanced software tools and methodologies to interpret large datasets. This kind of hands-on experience not only deepens their understanding of technology but also gives them a competitive edge as they prepare for college and future careers.



In addition to internships and mentoring, Oracle also sponsors various events and competitions for d.tech students, such as hackathons and design challenges. These events are designed to push students beyond their comfort zones, encouraging them to think creatively and solve complex problems under time constraints. By participating in these activities, students gain a realistic view of the collaborative, fast-paced nature of the tech industry.


The presence of Oracle’s influence on d.tech’s campus is palpable, as the school’s curriculum is infused with industry-relevant skills and concepts that are crucial for the modern workforce. For example, students take part in design sprints led by Oracle engineers, where they learn the principles of agile development and user-centered design. These experiences help students develop a practical skill set that aligns with current industry standards, making them more prepared for the demands of higher education and future careers in technology.


Designing Thinking Process
Source: d.tech

Through this unique partnership, d.tech and Oracle are redefining what a modern high school education can look like. By integrating industry expertise directly into the educational process, they are providing students with a learning environment that is both supportive and challenging, equipping them with the tools they need to become innovative thinkers and problem solvers. This collaboration is a powerful example of how schools and businesses can work together to create a pipeline of skilled, adaptable talent ready to take on the challenges of a rapidly evolving world.


Design Thinking

d.tech’s emphasis on Design Thinking has transformed the way students approach learning, setting the school apart as a trailblazer in educational innovation. To fully appreciate d.tech’s impact, it’s essential to understand the origins and principles of design thinking, a methodology deeply rooted in Silicon Valley and popularized by professors at Stanford University’s Hasso Plattner Institute of Design, better known as the d.school.


The Origins and History of Design Thinking


Design thinking began as a problem-solving framework in the 1960s, but it was the professors at Stanford University in the 1980s who formalized it into a structured, teachable methodology. Influential figures like David Kelley, a Stanford professor and founder of the design firm IDEO, were instrumental in shaping design thinking into a process that prioritizes empathy, experimentation, and iteration. Kelley and his colleagues believed that design principles could be applied beyond traditional product design, expanding into fields like education, healthcare, and business. Their work at the Stanford d.school emphasized a human-centered approach, where understanding the user’s needs and experiences is central to solving complex problems.


How Design Thinking Relates to Solving Real-World Problems


The beauty of Design Thinking lies in its focus on empathy and user-centric solutions, making it an ideal framework for addressing real-world challenges. By emphasizing a deep understanding of the problem before jumping to solutions, Design Thinking ensures that the solutions developed are both innovative and tailored to meet the actual needs of users. This method is particularly effective in tackling complex, ambiguous problems where traditional problem-solving approaches may fall short.


Design Thinking Process
Source: d.tech

Implementing Design Thinking at d.tech


At d.tech, design thinking is not just a part of the curriculum; it is embedded into the school’s very DNA. The school uses this methodology across subjects and projects, giving students a consistent framework for tackling challenges and solving problems creatively. From their freshman year, students are introduced to the Design Thinking process, learning how to approach problems empathetically and iteratively. This mindset is reinforced throughout their high school experience, as students engage in projects that require them to apply these principles.


Real-World Example: The Solar Charging Station Project


One sample project that exemplifies design thinking process is the creation of a solar powered charging station for the school’s campus. The project began when students noticed that there were limited places to charge their devices during outdoor activities. Instead of jumping straight to a solution, the students followed the design thinking process:


1. Empathize: They conducted surveys and interviews with classmates and staff to understand the specific needs and challenges faced by those who frequently used their devices outdoors.

2. Define: Based on their findings, the students framed the problem as: “How might we create a sustainable and convenient way for students to charge their devices while enjoying the outdoor spaces on campus?”

3. Ideate: During brainstorming sessions, the team generated a variety of ideas, from installing standard power outlets to creating a mobile charging cart. Ultimately, they decided to focus on a solar-powered station to align with the school’s sustainability goals.

4. Prototype: The students built a series of prototypes, starting with simple models using cardboard and eventually constructing a functional solar panel unit with a charging dock.

5. Test: They tested the station with their peers, gathered feedback, and made adjustments based on user experiences. Through multiple iterations, they improved the design, making it more user-friendly and efficient.


The final product was a functional, eco-friendly charging station that not only solved the problem but also showcased the students’ ability to apply design thinking to create a practical, impactful solution.


A Model for Educational Innovation


d.tech’s integration of Design Thinking has captured the attention of educators and policymakers nationwide, serving as a model for how innovation can be successfully woven into the fabric of education. By emphasizing empathy, creativity, and iteration, d.tech is equipping its students with a mindset and skill set that go far beyond traditional academics. The school’s approach has demonstrated that when students are empowered to think like designers, they are not only better prepared for the challenges of the real world but are also inspired to become proactive problem solvers who can make a positive impact in their communities.


Designing Thinking
Source: d.tech

As Ken Montgomery puts it, “Design thinking isn’t just a methodology; it’s a mindset. It’s about giving students the tools and confidence to tackle any problem they might encounter, no matter how big or small.”


As d.tech continues to evolve, its commitment to reshaping education through innovation remains steadfast. The school’s success demonstrates the transformative power of combining design thinking with hands-on learning, preparing students not only for academic achievement but for meaningful contributions to society.


“At d.tech, we believe that education should be as dynamic as the world our students are preparing to enter,” says Montgomery. “By focusing on creativity, collaboration, and real-world problem-solving, we’re equipping our students with the tools they need to thrive.”

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