Problem-Based Learning
PBL
Learning starts with an open, ill-structured problem. Small groups drive their own inquiry and learn through finding solutions.
CBL inherits:
Self-directed inquiry, problem before answer
Methodology
Methodology
Challenge Based Learning (CBL) is SPIN's core methodology — a learning framework where students develop competencies through real-world problems in collaboration with industry partners.
What is CBL?
Challenge Based Learning is a learning framework developed by Apple, used in universities and organizations worldwide. It connects formal education with real-world problems — the focus is not on finding the 'right answer', but on understanding the problem, researching it, and testing solution ideas.
Unlike traditional methods, CBL doesn't start with an answer, but with a question. Students must formulate the problem themselves, research it, and test solution ideas. The concrete outcome may be a prototype, concept, or new understanding of the problem — what matters is the learning process and competencies gained.
CBL in the landscape of active learning
CBL doesn't exist in isolation — it builds on established active learning methods and takes them one step further.
Design-Based Learning
DBL
Learning happens through iterative design cycles: ideate, prototype, test, refine. Failure is built into the process as a feature.
CBL inherits:
Iterative process, user-centred thinking
Project-Based Learning
PjBL
An extended project produces a concrete deliverable. Real-world context gives the work authentic purpose and meaning.
CBL inherits:
Concrete deliverable, authentic context
CBL combines all three — and adds one more layer
The challenge is not invented by the teacher — it comes from the real world: a company, a public sector body, or a community. This makes both the learning process and the outcome meaningful beyond the classroom.
The CBL Framework
Three phases take you from a big idea to a concrete solution.
01
Engage
Inspire & engage
Students explore big ideas and questions to find a personally meaningful challenge. Industry partners and experts present real-world problems.
- Big idea discussion
- Essential question formulation
- Challenge definition
02
Investigate
Research & analyze
Teams conduct systematic research — interviews, data analysis, literature review. The goal is deep understanding of the problem before creating a solution.
- Guiding activities
- Resource analysis
- Synthesis & conclusions
03
Act
Act & learn
Students test solution ideas, create prototypes or concepts, and reflect on the experience. The outcome may be a working prototype, business model, simulation — or a valuable conclusion that the problem needs a different approach.
- Testing solution ideas
- Prototyping or concept creation
- Reflection & lessons learned
Engage
Investigate
Act
CBL as an innovation ecosystem
The Quadruple Helix model describes innovation born from the collaboration of four societal actors. SPIN uses CBL as the catalyst for exactly this kind of collaboration — the challenge connects participants across institutional boundaries.
- Academia — TalTech students and lecturers bring methodology, research rigour, and interdisciplinary perspective.
- Industry — Companies and organisations bring real-world challenges, mentorship, and industry context.
- Public Sector — Municipalities and ministries bring systemic challenges with broad societal impact.
- Civil Society — Communities provide context and are the ultimate users and judges of the solutions created.
Quadruple Helix innovation ecosystem
How SPIN applies CBL
Interdisciplinarity
Teams consist of students from different fields — engineers, designers, economists, and IT specialists work together.
Industry partner challenges
All projects are based on real-world problems brought in by companies and organizations.
Process-based assessment
Both outcome and process are assessed — problem understanding, teamwork, and learning experience. Even failure is a valuable result when lessons are learned.
CBL in practice
Challenge Based Learning is successfully applied by universities and organizations worldwide.
Apple CBL Study
Apple and New Media Consortium's study involved 24 schools, 1,500+ students, and 90 teachers. Results: 90% of teachers reported significant improvement in critical thinking, creativity, and problem solving. 75% of students worked harder on CBL projects than regular schoolwork.
Read the studyTecnológico de Monterrey
Mexico's leading technical university applied CBL in their Sustainable Development Engineering program. Students solved real environmental problems with local companies — from waste management to renewable energy solutions.
Read the articleTU Eindhoven
Eindhoven University of Technology conducted a systematic review of CBL implementation in engineering education. The study confirmed that CBL develops interdisciplinary collaboration, critical thinking, and industry-relevant competencies.
Read the articleAalto Design Factory (PDP)
Aalto University's 8-month Product Development Project course brings together students from different fields to tackle real product development challenges from companies. Over 25+ years, teams have worked on everything from packaging to medical devices — sometimes solutions reach market, sometimes they remain valuable learning experiences.
View programOlin College of Engineering
America's most innovative engineering college, where the entire curriculum is built on challenge-based approaches. Students tackle real design and engineering problems from their first semester — emphasis is on process, iteration, and teamwork, not just the final outcome.
View case studiesReady for the challenge?
See how you can participate — whether you're a student, lecturer, or company representative.