Dated curriculum, rote learning, and disregard for the job market, there are many loopholes in the education system. To overcome these shortcomings, CBSE initiated a skill-based learning program. Aimed at experiential learning and practical application rather than theoretical knowledge, skill education helps students prepare for the competitive world. Design Thinking and Innovation is one of the many skill subjects taught by CBSE schools under their composite skill lab initiative. In this article, we will discuss its purpose, benefits, and explore some design thinking examples and applications. So, without further ado, let us tell you what design thinking is.

What is design thinking and innovation?

Design thinking is an iterative process used to design solutions, fixating on needs of users. It takes a human-centric approach to solve complex issues. Innovation signifies developing new methods and ideas focusing on human needs.

Teaching design thinking and innovation in schools nurtures creativity, innovation, problem-solving, critical thinking, and empathy in students. It teaches them to evaluate needs and problems sympathetically and develop innovative ideas with iterative processes.

Why design thinking and innovation is a CBSE skill subject

CBSE schools teach design thinking and innovation as part of skill education to students at primary, secondary, and senior secondary levels. The syllabus and teaching approach are designed according to the age and mental capabilities of students, e.g., design thinking and innovation CBSE class 7 syllabus covers introduction and basic concepts, while the syllabus of class 12 includes technical, in-depth knowledge of the subject.

The core purpose of design thinking and innovation aligns with the core purpose of CBSE skill education. Exposing young students to design thinking and innovation concepts prepares them for long-term growth and success.

Theoretical knowledge of core concepts of DT&I and hands-on training make them natural problem-solvers and innovators. In the big picture, it helps to create a brighter, stronger, and resilient tomorrow.

Benefits of design thinking and innovation for CBSE students

The integration of design thinking and innovation in the CBSE curriculum fulfils CBSE’s vision of creating future-ready individuals. By teaching the iterative processes and real-world applications of DT&I, schools foster several essential skills in students that help them to stand out in academics and professional life.

Here are the benefits of design thinking and innovation for CBSE students-

It promotes multidisciplinary learning

Design thinking integrates different disciplines, including mathematics, science, technology, and arts. Experimentation and innovation that form the core of DT require students to apply the knowledge of different subjects to solve problems structurally and effectively. It promotes multidisciplinary learning.

It encourages imagination, creativity, and an inventive mindset  

Design thinking fuels imagination and creativity. It stimulates curiosity and encourages students to explore new ideas, think unconventionally, and innovate. It promotes learning through experimentation.

The trial-and-error approach teaches students to be patient, embrace failure without getting discouraged, and try again. It nurtures perseverance.

All these skills help students navigate the technology-driven, fast-paced world.

It fosters problem-solving skills

Design Thinking is fundamentally centered on recognizing problems and finding viable human-centric solutions. Exposing children to design thinking at an early age nurtures their ability to identify loopholes and curate effective solutions.

Furthermore, students are taught to acquire a people-focused approach for solving problems. It makes them empathetic.

It opens many career opportunities

Design Thinking has applications in several industries, including product design and UX design, healthcare, education, service design, marketing, business management, IT and telecommunications, human resources, retail, public services, business management, etc.

The core knowledge of design thinking and innovation plants several technical and soft skills required to curate a prolific career in these fields.

Design thinking innovation examples

Design thinking and innovation are widely applied across various industries. Here are some design thinking examples and applications-

Product development

Identifying user needs and curating solutions is the core of design thinking and innovation. It helps in product development by assessing needs, experimenting, prototyping, and testing through iterative processes.

It also helps companies to create products that are user-friendly and easily marketable.

Education

Educators can use design thinking and innovation to invent future-forward teaching methodologies. It helps educational institutions to create innovative and inclusive pedagogic approaches by assessing the needs of teachers and students.

Healthcare

Design thinking and innovation help in creating solutions to enhance the patient experience. Healthcare entities can use design thinking approaches to assess the needs of patients and develop ideas to improve treatments and other healthcare services.

Service design

Companies can optimize their offerings through design thinking. Identifying pain points and incorporating effective solutions in their services to enhance the user journey and experience helps companies create a loyal customer base.

Company culture

Companies can use design thinking to improve the company culture. Through design thinking principles, they can foster empathy, a people-focused mindset, collaboration, problem-solving, imagination, and creativity in their workforce. These attributes go a long way in helping people succeed, which translates to the success of the organization.

The bottom line

Design thinking and innovation are a breakthrough addition in the CBSE skill education curriculum. It not only prepares students to jump into the career pool equipped with technical skills but also with soft skills that help them survive the competition and carve a niche for themselves. It caters to the bigger picture and prepares students to face a tough tomorrow.

CBSE schools are also actively and sincerely contributing to meet the composite skill lab’s objectives by delivering valuable skill-based education to students. If you want your child to graduate future-ready from school, trust DWPS with their education.

DWPS Barasat has a robust infrastructure and skilled staff to implement design thinking and innovation into their curriculum. A well-designed syllabus and hands-on practical training empower students with the essential skills to excel in the future.