Stephan Hitchins

Stephan Hitchins is a distinguished design thinking expert and educator who has developed the innovative 5E Design Thinking Framework, which has been integrated into various MBA programs. Currently completing his PhD focused on the effectiveness of Design Thinking as a problem-solving process, he brings extensive experience in higher education teaching and curriculum development. His academic credentials include a Bachelor of Design, Master of Design Futures, and MBA, complemented by his practical expertise in strategic branding and visual communications. At the University of Adelaide, he has contributed as a Subject Matter Expert and lecturer, developing and presenting courses on the FutureLearn platform, including "Create Innovative Teams with Design Thinking" and "Build an Agile Team." His teaching philosophy emphasizes human-centered design, collaborative learning, and the expansion of cognitive flexibility through digital platforms. His expertise spans across design thinking, strategic branding, visual communication, creative entrepreneurship, and cross-cultural design, with a particular focus on promoting critical thinking and knowledge exchange through strategic leadership. His innovative approach to education combines traditional teaching methods with modern digital platforms, reflecting his commitment to expanding cognitive flexibility through e-learning initiatives.