Highlights:
- Learn how to tackle challenges creatively and develop innovative solutions.
- Understand the importance of focusing on the needs and experiences of users throughout the design process.
- Engage in a process of constant feedback, where ideas are iteratively tested, refined, and enhanced to meet evolving requirements and user needs.
Once seen as a specialized skill, design thinking has become indispensable for businesses. It’s now crucial for smooth operations and smarter decision-making. Knowing how to understand and use data creatively is key. It’s not just about collecting information; it’s about predicting future trends and finding better ways to solve problems. Proficiency in design thinking is now a hallmark of successful businesses. They seek individuals who can leverage design principles effectively. In our guide, we’ve curated some of the best free design thinking courses for 2024. Whether you’re a beginner or want to enhance your skills, there’s a course tailored for you.
| Name | Timings | Certificate | Level | Link |
| Coursera | 1-3 Hours | Yes | Intermediate | https://www.coursera.org/courses?query=design%20thinking |
| Class Central | 53 Minutes | Yes | Beginner | https://www.classcentral.com/course/youtube-design-thinking-transforming-teams-110078 |
| The Open University | 10 Hours | Yes | Beginner | https://www.open.edu/openlearn/science-maths-technology/design-innovation/design-thinking/content-section-0?active-tab=description-tab |
| Great Learning | 20-30 Minutes | Yes | Beginner | https://www.mygreatlearning.com/academy/learn-for-free/courses/design-thinking |
| Simplilearn | 1 Hours | Yes | Beginner | https://www.simplilearn.com/learn-design-thinking-basics-free-course-skillup |
| Edx | 1-2 weeks | Yes | Beginner | https://www.edx.org/learn/design-thinking |
Best free online Design Thinking Courses
1. Coursera Design Thinking for Business Strategy
- Mode of study: Online
- Duration of Course: 19 hours to complete (3 weeks at 6 hours a week)
- Price: Free
- Level: Intermediate
- Certificate: Yes
What you will Learn:
- Design Led Strategy
- Primary Market Research
- Prototyping
- Corporate Case Studies
How long does it take to complete?
This program spans over 3 weeks, with students dedicating approximately 6 hours per week. Even if you only manage to finish the first part, which takes about 2 hours and 9 minutes, it’s worth giving it a try.
2. Class Central Design Thinking Course
- Mode of study: Online
- Duration of Course: 53 minutes
- Price: Free
- Level: Beginner
- Certificate: Yes
What you will Learn:
- Design Thinking Process.
How long does it take to complete?
The course offers a concise 53-minute session accessible for a duration of 90 days. Even if you choose to explore just the initial module, which spans around 53 minutes, it’s undoubtedly a worthwhile opportunity at no cost.
3. The Open University
- Mode of study: Online
- Duration of Course: 10 Hours
- Price: Free
- Level: Beginner
- Certificate: No
What you will Learn:
- Design Problems and Opportunities
- Design Decisions
- Computing Tools
How long does it take to complete?
The course offers a condensed 10-hour session. Even if you’re only able to dedicate a brief time, like 17 minutes, to the initial segment, it’s absolutely worth exploring.
4. Great Learning Design Thinking for Beginners
- Mode of study: Online
- Duration of Course: 30 Minutes
- Price: Free
- Level: Beginner
- Certificate: Yes
What you will Learn:
- Design thinking process
- Basics of design thinking
- Strategic thinking
How long does it take to complete?
Once enrolled, you have the flexibility to finish the course within your chosen timeframe, whether it’s just within 30 minutes or spread out over several weeks.
5. Simplilearn Design Thinking for Beginners
- Mode of study: Online
- Duration of Course: 1 Hour
- Price: Free
- Level: Beginner
- Certificate: Yes
What you will Learn:
- Empathy mapping
- Agile methodology and design thinking
- The five phases and four pillars of design thinking
- Strategic Thinking.
How long does it take to complete?
It designed to be completed within 1 hour, providing you with the flexibility to learn at your own pace with lifetime access.
6. EdX Design Thinking
- Mode of study: Online
- Duration of Course: 1 week
- Price: Free
- Level: Beginner
- Certificate: Yes
What you will Learn:
- The five stages of Design Thinking
- Starting point for Innovation.
- Design Thinking to identify and solve the right problem.
How long does it take to complete?
You have 1 week to complete the Design Thinking course, providing a condensed yet intensive learning experience. and you can learn at your own pace.
Conclusion
The courses we’ve explored provide invaluable insights and adaptable learning approaches suitable for everyone. By refining your design thinking abilities, you’re equipping yourself for success in diverse professional realms. Don’t miss out on the chance to enroll in one of these courses and enhance your proficiency in design thinking.