Training “Implementing Challenge-Based Learning (CBL) in Higher Education”

24 26 March 2026, Online 

Members of the academic staff from EU-CONEXUS partner universities are invited to the training “Implementing Challenge-Based Learning (CBL) in Higher Education” that will take place online from 24 to 26 March 2026.  

Challenge-Based Learning (CBL) is an innovative educational approach that actively engages students in real-world challenges, encouraging them to develop practical solutions through collaboration, critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity. By bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application, CBL fosters deeper understanding, long-term retention of concepts, and meaningful learning experiences. 

Training “Implementing Challenge-Based Learning (CBL) in Higher Education”

The training aims to introduce participants to the Challenge-Based Learning approach and its effective implementation in higher education. CBL enables students to experience the relevance of teaching content by connecting it to real-life contexts. It unites research and teaching, promotes a scientific mindset, and encourages critical reflection across academia, the economy, and society. Furthermore, it makes disciplinary boundaries visible, opens up new perspectives, and strengthens learners’ ability to navigate complex environments and a rapidly changing world. Through collaboration among students, teachers, and external partners, CBL links subjects and methods to cross-disciplinary competencies and prepares students for professional life. 

The core principles of CBL include real-world focus, multidisciplinary integration, collaboration and communication, technology integration, and action-oriented practices. The CBL framework typically unfolds across three interconnected phases: Engage, Investigate, and Act. Effective implementation of CBL requires careful consideration of key components such as the Big Idea, Essential Question, Challenge, Guiding Questions, Guiding Activities, Guiding Resources, Solution Development, Reflection and Assessment, and Publishing/Sharing.

When implemented in the teaching and learning process, Challenge-Based Learning contributes to increased student engagement and motivation; improved problem-solving, critical thinking, communication, and collaboration skills; enhanced ability to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world situations; and greater preparedness for future professional challenges and opportunities.

Implementing Challenge-Based Learning represents a significant step toward modernising higher education. By connecting learning with authentic challenges, CBL creates a dynamic and engaging educational experience that supports both academic and personal growth. Overall, it equips students with the knowledge, skills, and confidence needed to thrive in an increasingly complex and ever-changing world.

Menelaos Sotiriou is the Founder and President of Science View. He works in the fields of science communication, Science/STEAM education, and technology transfer. He holds a background in Applied Mathematics, a Master’s degree in Total Quality Management, and has over 25 years of international professional experience. His research focuses on education, particularly the development of self-reflection tools to measure innovation, e-maturity, STEAM integration, and transdisciplinary approaches in educational institutions. He has been involved in numerous national and European projects and has extensive experience in project management, training delivery, and collaboration with universities and educational organisations. 

Olia Tsivitanidou is Co-Founder and Managing Director of INQUIRIUM Ltd. She holds a PhD and a Master’s degree in Science Education, a BSc in Physics, and a BA in Educational Sciences. Olia has over 16 years of experience in European-funded projects, including FP7, Horizon Europe, and Erasmus+ programmes, often serving in coordinating roles. She specialises in managing multinational and cross-sectoral consortia, developing EU funding proposals, and coordinating international research and innovation projects. Her published work is available at: https://bit.ly/3WHr8Vn  

Date Time (CET) 
Activity
24/03/202611:00 – 12:30 Training
12:30 – 13:00Break
13:00 – 14:00 Training
26/03/2026 11:00 – 12:30 Training
12:30 – 13:00Break
13:00 – 14:00Training