From Intuition to Innovation: Doreen Gehry Nelson and the Origins of Design-Based Learning

What Is the DBL Method?

The Doreen Nelson Method of Design-Based Learning focuses on students building and managing a never-before-seen city of the future in their classroom over time. This small-scale, role-play “city game” is not an add-on or an arts-and-crafts project—it’s a powerful tool for delivering core academic content in a way that builds community and teaches real-life relevance.

Inside the ‘City Game’: Why DBL Works for Students and Teachers

Design-Based Learning transforms the classroom into a community, where students learn by building, refining and running their own imagined city, while mastering subject content in the process.

Beyond the Lecture: The Teacher as Facilitator

In DBL, teachers don’t lecture—they guide. By shifting from instructor to facilitator, teachers support students in learning how to express themselves, engage in democratic dialogue, and see the value of required content through purposeful application. There’s no single “right” answer in building the city of the future, which opens space for creativity and risk-taking.

As Nelson explains, “Without the pressure of a single correct solution, students feel free to express themselves. The process reduces anxiety and boosts participation.”

Real-World Relevance in Every Subject

Whether students are learning about civics, math, science, language arts, history or other subjects, they integrate knowledge into their evolving city. They solve real-world problems, debate issues and even learn Robert’s Rules of Order to govern as a democratic community.

As they move from “me” to “we” to “us,” students develop confidence, empathy and the ability to collaborate—qualities vital to both school and life.

“Students see the invisible aspects of city life become visible,” says Nelson. “They see the real-world purpose of learning basic subjects.”

Staying Relevant: Why DBL Still Works After 60 Years

Sixty years after its inception, the Doreen Nelson Method of Design-Based Learning continues to thrive in classrooms across the country—and beyond. Why? Because it adapts, grows and meets both teachers and students where they are.

Flexible for Any Classroom

DBL isn’t about telling teachers what they should or can do. Instead, it offers a flexible structure that nurtures both student and teacher creativity. Whether a teacher starts with a single unit or a full city build, the process sparks imagination and real-world thinking.

“There’s no right way to build a city of the future,” says Nelson. “DBL ignites the teacher’s creative spirit and frees them from rigid practices.”

Still Making a Difference

The long-term impact of DBL is visible. In 2023, a woman named Portia—a student from Nelson’s first class, in 1969—volunteered at South by Southwest to share her story. Thanks to DBL, she developed critical social skills and became the first in her family to graduate from high school. She raised her children, who completed college, and now works as a pediatric nurse.

“Kids thrive—and so do teachers,” Nelson says.

For Teachers Unsure Where to Start

Nelson’s message to educators is simple: Start small. Trust the process. And do it anyway.

• Start small: Introduce one unit or theme—expand as you grow.
• Remember your role: You don’t need to come up with all the ideas. Guide students to think.
• Trust the process: DBL is structured learning disguised as a “game.” Students will respond.

Whether at SXSW or in classrooms around the globe, DBL remains a relevant, effective method for turning curiosity into learning—and imagination into action.