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Course Spotlight: It Depends: An Inquiry into Innovative Thinking

Explore the MIIPS Program

Embracing Ambiguity

“This activity introduces our students to a common theme in our program: ambiguity. With little to no requirements, students must create a functional piece of furniture. Throughout the MIIPS program, they will continue solving problems that don’t have a single “right” answer. How they choose to welcome and embrace ambiguity will mold their future as an innovator.”

Forming an Innovative Mindset

“It Depends: An Inquiry into Innovative Thinking” is a course taken at the beginning of a student’s journey in the Master of Integrated Innovation for Products and Services (MIIPS) program.

This course explores how one’s mindset and perspective on the world can influence the ability to bring innovative thinking into one’s work. From the first exercise, students learn to embrace ambiguity, a common theme in the MIIPS program. Over the course of their time in the MIIPS program, students will often face problems that don’t have a single right answer. Learning to become comfortable with honing in on a problem space and focusing their work is essential for their future as innovators.

Through readings, exercises, discussions, and debates, students explore the traits and lateral thinking that lead to fearless, curious, explorative work and how a true growth mindset can make a difference.