Design thinking -- it's a popular buzzword these days, with companies from IBM to GE using this approach to develop innovative products and reinvigorate their operations. But what exactly is design thinking and why is it playing an increasingly important role in K-12 education? Design thinking, or human-centered design, is all about focusing on the needs of people to ensure that the correct problem is being solved in the most effective way. With critical thinking skills becoming increasingly important in a knowledge-based economy, many educators see design thinking as a way to tap into students' passions while enabling them to solve problems in an ever-more diverse and interconnected world. This panel of experts shares their insight on design thinking and its power to transform classrooms and equip students with 21st century skills vital to success. (#32157)