Challenge Based Learning with Alkemio
Embracing Challenge-Based Learning with Alkemio
Challenge-Based Learning (CBL) is transforming education by emphasizing real-world problem-solving and collaboration. Originally developed by Apple, CBL is now widely adopted globally, including in The Netherlands. In this approach, students work together in teams to find big ideas, ask important questions, and solve real-world problems. This creates a learning environment that focuses on students and lets them learn by doing. We have supported CBL-based courses by providing a platform for practical, hands-on learning experiences.
Why CBL Matters
Education is important for a bright future, but traditional teaching methods often treat students like they can simply receive knowledge. CBL, however, invites students to actively participate in solutioning, making learning more engaging and relevant.
Real-World Learning in the Classroom
CBL goes beyond just memorizing concepts, engaging students in challenges that require critical thinking, collaboration, and practical application of knowledge. This approach connects theoretical learning with real-world applications, making education more meaningful.
A flexible learning environment is crucial for CBL, where students can blend methodology and theory with their own challenges. Instead of a closed environment with forced presentations, stakeholders are invited into the “classroom” to co-create solutions with students, providing input along the way. This transparency allows teachers to intervene at the right moments, fostering a better learning process and assessment.
Students Take the Lead
CBL shifts the focus from teacher-led instruction to student-centered learning. Students take ownership of their education by identifying challenges, conducting research, proposing solutions, and reflecting on their experiences. This approach makes learning more tailored and impactful.
For example, a team of professors replaced weeks of lectures with a Mini-Challenge, tasking students to develop an app. This hands-on task led students to master 80% of the required material independently within two weeks, showcasing the potential of CBL.
Guidance is essential for students to succeed in CBL. Clear processes and expectations, along with timely check-ins from teachers, help students feel confident and stay on the right path.
Alkemio: A Perfect Fit for CBL
Alkemio’s structure is ideal for CBL, and some Dutch educators are already using it. Teachers can allocate a Space for the course, split the work into defined phases with instructions and materials, and use this to create Subspaces for each student team. Think of it like a classroom where the students can either participate on a class level or on a small group level.
In the overarching Space, all course materials are shared, while Subspaces provide a focused learning environment. Here, students can write, use whiteboards, brainstorm with peers, and work towards their solutions. Stakeholders and teachers can be invited into these Subspaces to offer insights and feedback. Students can tag their teacher for feedback or review their peers’ work. Best of all, Spaces and Subspaces can be reused as templates for future courses.
Conclusion
Whether you use Alkemio or not, Challenge-Based Learning represents a vision for education that is more student-centered, rewarding both theoretical and practical work.
Interested in trying out Alkemio?