UNIT 4 – INTRODUCTION TO CAPSTONE PROJECT
Class XI – Artificial Intelligence (CBSE)
1. Introduction
A Capstone Project is a final project where students apply everything they have learned in Artificial
Intelligence (AI) to solve a real-world problem.
It helps in developing creativity, problem-solving, teamwork, and innovation skills.
Before starting a Capstone Project, students must understand the process of Design Thinking, Empathy
Mapping, and align their work with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
2. Design Thinking
2.1 What is Design Thinking?
• Design Thinking is a human-centered approach to problem-solving.
• It focuses on understanding the needs of people, generating creative ideas, and building practical
solutions.
• It is widely used in industries, education, and AI-based problem solving.
2.2 Stages of Design Thinking
Design Thinking has five stages:
1. Empathize
o Understand the problem from the user’s point of view.
o Observe, interact, and try to feel what the user experiences.
2. Define
o Clearly state the problem.
o Identify the user’s needs and challenges.
o Example: “Students are unable to manage study time effectively.”
3. Ideate
o Brainstorm multiple solutions.
o Think creatively without fear of mistakes.
o Example: A mobile app for study planning, a chatbot for reminders.
4. Prototype
o Build a simple model of the solution.
o It can be a sketch, chart, or working model.
5. Test
o Try the prototype with real users.
o Collect feedback and improve the solution.
3. Empathy Map
3.1 What is an Empathy Map?
• An Empathy Map is a tool that helps understand the feelings, thoughts, and needs of users.
• It is used in the Empathize stage of Design Thinking.
• It places the user at the center and captures their experiences in a structured way.
3.2 Structure of an Empathy Map
An empathy map is divided into four parts:
1. Says – What the user actually says in interviews or conversations.
o Example: “I find it hard to remember homework.”
2. Thinks – What the user is thinking but may not openly say.
o Example: “I’m afraid I will fail my exam.”
3. Does – The actions or behaviors of the user.
o Example: Spending more time on social media than studying.
4. Feels – The emotions the user experiences.
o Example: Stressed, worried, or motivated.
3.3 Importance of Empathy Map
• Builds a deeper understanding of users.
• Helps identify hidden needs and challenges.
• Provides a base for defining the problem more clearly.
4. Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
4.1 What are SDGs?
• The United Nations (UN) has created 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to make the world
a better place by 2030.
• These goals focus on ending poverty, protecting the environment, and ensuring peace and
prosperity for all.
4.2 Examples of SDGs
1. No Poverty
2. Zero Hunger
3. Good Health and Well-being
4. Quality Education
5. Gender Equality
6. Clean Water and Sanitation
7. Affordable and Clean Energy
8. Decent Work and Economic Growth
… (up to 17 goals)
4.3 Role of SDGs in Capstone Projects
• While selecting a project idea, students should link it with one or more SDGs.
• Example Projects:
o AI chatbot for mental health → Goal 3 (Good Health & Well-being)
o Smart irrigation system → Goal 2 (Zero Hunger) & Goal 6 (Clean Water)
o E-learning mobile app → Goal 4 (Quality Education)
5. Capstone Project
5.1 What is a Capstone Project?
• A Capstone Project is a final practical assignment where students apply AI concepts to solve a real-
world problem.
• It acts as a “capstone” (final stone) of learning, combining theory, coding, teamwork, and creativity.
5.2 Steps to Create a Capstone Project
1. Identify a Problem
o Select a real problem faced by society, school, or community.
2. Connect with SDGs
o Align the problem with one or more Sustainable Development Goals.
3. Apply Design Thinking
o Use Empathy, Define, Ideate, Prototype, and Test stages to design the solution.
4. Develop the Solution
o Build a prototype using tools like Python, Scratch, Teachable Machine, etc.
5. Test and Improve
o Share with users, take feedback, and make improvements.
6. Final Presentation
o Present the project in a structured way: Problem → Solution → SDG Link → Demo →
Conclusion.
5.3 Examples of Capstone Projects
• AI Chatbot for Students – Helps in answering common study-related queries.
• Face Recognition Attendance System – Automates attendance in schools.
• Waste Segregation Model – Identifies recyclable and non-recyclable waste.
• Smart Irrigation System – Uses AI to save water in agriculture.
5.4 Benefits of Capstone Projects
• Encourages creativity and innovation.
• Improves teamwork, collaboration, and leadership skills.
• Builds problem-solving and analytical thinking.
• Provides real-world application of AI concepts.
• Prepares students for future careers in AI and technology.
