TU/e Revolutionizes Education with Challenge-Based Learning
Eindhoven, Monday, 13 October 2025.
Eindhoven University of Technology adopts Challenge-Based Learning, allowing students to tackle real-world problems with industry partners, enhancing skills and innovation for a dynamic job market.
The Rise of Challenge-Based Learning
Challenge-Based Learning (CBL) has become a cornerstone of education at Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e), emphasizing student-led projects that address real-world problems. This innovative approach was pioneered by educators such as Gerrit Kroesen and Rudie Kunnen in the Department of Applied Physics and Science Education. Their efforts have transformed traditional lecture-based courses into dynamic, hands-on learning experiences, beginning with a transition to Design-Based Learning (DBL) before evolving into full-fledged CBL courses [1].
Collaboration with Industry and Impact
One of the key features of CBL at TU/e is the collaboration with industry partners like DAF Trucks. This engagement allows students to not only develop technical skills but also to learn to navigate the complexities and uncertainties of real-world challenges. According to Isabelle Reymen, the scientific director of TU/e innovation Space, such partnerships are essential for training students to become ‘change agents of the future,’ capable of addressing societal challenges through innovative solutions [2][3].
Educational Innovation at TU/e
Since its establishment in 2017, the TU/e innovation Space has been at the forefront of integrating CBL into the university’s curriculum. It serves as a center for student entrepreneurship and interdisciplinary learning, facilitating approximately 4,400 students annually through various CBL courses. This approach not only enhances educational outcomes but also prepares students for the rapidly evolving job market by providing practical experience and fostering innovative thinking [2][4].
The Future of CBL at TU/e
Looking ahead, TU/e plans to further embed CBL into its educational framework as part of its Strategy 2030. The Bachelor College 2.0, launched in September 2023, is a testament to this commitment, incorporating CBL as a fundamental component of engineering education. The university’s continued focus on challenge-based learning aims to equip students with the skills necessary to tackle the complex challenges of the future, ensuring that they remain at the forefront of innovation and technological advancement [1][3][5].