Learning methods have changed over time and as learners' needs have evolved. Challenge-based learning is one of the most innovative systems for transmitting knowledge. It is known by the French name of learning by challenge. The purpose of using challenge-based learning is to acquire more relevance in learning, and allowsOptimize collaboration in business. What are the specificities of this educational system and how does it work? An overview of challenge-based learning.
What is challenge-based learning?
Challenge-based learning is a learning system based on a call to action. This method has been very successful in the field of vocational training for some time, and everyone has their own way of applying it to acquire new knowledge. Indeed, it is possible to combine what characterizes a training plan with the challenges of real life. So Challenge learning can be defined as learning organized around real life, but adapted as part of a project. We can see a form of Serious Game.
In addition, this educational device is considered to be a combination of cognitive and constructivist theories. The objective of challenge-based learning is to push the development of learners' skills while they solve problems.. Concretely, this method maintains the level of skills of employees in their field of expertise, while allowing them to acquire other knowledge that could prove to be complementary.
What are the specificities and characteristics of challenge-based learning?
Challenge-based learning is distinguished from other learning devices by its specific characteristics and specific characteristics, including:
- The use of real problems : As explained earlier, learners who use this technique rely on real life and existing problems. Confronting and learning from real problems allows them to gain new content knowledge and critical thinking skills.
- Confidence in problems to respond to the curriculum : The theory has already shown its effectiveness. Instead of asking yourself useless questions, the best thing you can do is get carried away by the flow. Problem solving does not impact qualifications per se, but it helps to develop knowledge as you learn.
- Problems must be poorly structured : When the problem is not well structured, it is much easier and more obvious to find the solution. Indeed, the solution is not unique, but the perception of the problem and the solution is changing.
- This technique is mostly learner-centered : The learner is the first to be concerned with what he is learning in class. He is the main actor, either in his own success or in his failure. Trainers are there to pass on their knowledge. The success of the learner depends only on him alone, and the learning system pushes him. It is now independent of the professors. The different groups can eventually form real learning communities.
How does challenge-based learning take place?
Challenge learning is an instruction system that promotes simultaneous development of problem-solving strategies and disciplinary knowledge. It puts learners first by giving them the main role. Obviously, challenge-based learning takes place in groups. Everyone learning from others while solving the problem, we can see it as a form of Social learning. It is mostly done in five steps.
- Reading and examining the problem : This first step is carried out without any prior preparation. It allows learners to encode and organize information. However, even if challenge-based learning takes place in a team, the first step must be done individually.
- Understanding the problem and the resources available : In this phase, the learners learn about the group, the tutor responsible for supporting them and all the resources available to them to solve the problem. The aim is to increase the development of cognitive knowledge, self-management knowledge, and questioning habits.
- The self-directed study : Each learner must define everything they need to know and assimilate. He should also think about what resources are needed to achieve his goals. In this phase, learners learn self-direction, distinguish between all the information in their hands and what they need to look for.
- Sharing the directed study : For all participants to be on the same page, it is essential to pool the directed study and to do a second analysis of the problem with the group.
- Self-assessment : The last step focuses on assessing the work done. It involves self-assessment and evaluation by the tutor. For self-assessment, the learner reflects on what he has learned during the implementation of challenge-based learning. The aim is to give him confidence and to value what he has achieved. This step can be done in a group or individually, depending on the decision of the tutor.
