Eindhoven University Champions Practical Learning to Boost Innovation
Eindhoven, Tuesday, 11 November 2025.
Eindhoven University of Technology pioneers Challenge-Based Learning, bridging theory and real-world application, to equip students with skills to solve pressing societal issues.
Fostering Innovation through Challenge-Based Learning
Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e) is at the forefront of promoting Challenge-Based Learning (CBL) as an integral part of its educational strategy. This method emphasizes the importance of practical challenges in bridging theoretical knowledge with real-world applications, a move that is crucial in equipping students with the skills necessary to address pressing societal issues such as sustainability and technological integration [1][2].
Key Figures and Their Contributions
Prominent figures like Isabelle Reymen, the scientific director of TU/e innovation Space, and Bas Verkaik, founder of ELEO Technologies, have been vocal proponents of CBL. Reymen highlights the transformative potential of CBL in fostering innovation, while Verkaik’s journey with CBL began during his time as a student, where he participated in projects like the development of an electric touring motorcycle [3][4].
Industry Partnerships and Real-World Impact
The collaboration between TU/e and industry stakeholders, such as DAF Trucks, showcases the practical application of CBL. These partnerships have resulted in students tackling challenges that require interdisciplinary approaches, such as improving the sustainability of electric vehicle batteries. This collaboration not only benefits the students by providing real-world problem-solving experience but also offers fresh perspectives to the companies involved [5][6].
Future Directions and Expansion
Looking forward, TU/e plans to expand its CBL initiatives by merging courses across departments to create more multidisciplinary opportunities. This expansion is expected to increase student involvement drastically, from approximately 150 to 500-600 students, reflecting a significant scaling up of the CBL approach. This growth underscores the commitment of TU/e to preparing its students to become leaders in innovation and problem-solving in a rapidly changing world [7][8].