Learn how to facilitate a Challenge-Based Learning (CBL) module at Fontys Pulsed

Challenge Week 040 is a one-week, Challenge-Based Learning (CBL) programme in which interdisciplinary student teams work on real-life challenges provided by regional stakeholders in the Eindhoven Brainport region. Students from vocational, applied sciences and research universities collaborate to explore complex societal issues, develop creative solutions, and present prototypes and recommendations to the challenge owners.
As part of this Train-the-Trainer programme, staff participants will experience the Challenge Week from both a learner and facilitator perspective. They will take part in key learning activities, observe and discuss the underlying educational design, and gradually take on the role of junior facilitator while coaching student teams alongside experienced CBL facilitators. The programme is designed to provide practical experience with facilitating interdisciplinary, international Challenge-Based Learning that participants can adapt and implement within their own institution. For an impression, check out this video from 2 years ago: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v4J25L6SHgA&t=169s [1]

[1] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v4J25L6SHgA&t=169s

Facilitator/Teacher: Milou Kauffman
Facilitator/Teacher email: m.kauffman@fontys.nl
Contact information:
Training dates:
Training duration: 2 online sessions and 1 fulltime week on site in Eindhoven
Application deadline: 2026-09-14
Maximum participants: 6

Intended learning outcomes:
After completing this staff training, participants will be able to:
– Explain the key principles of Challenge-Based Learning (CBL) as applied within Fontys Pulsed and the HEROES alliance.
– Facilitate student teams during different phases of a Challenge-Based Learning process using appropriate coaching techniques.
– Apply practical facilitation methods and learning activities that support interdisciplinary and international student collaboration.
– Reflect on their facilitation experience and identify opportunities to adapt Challenge-Based Learning practices within their own institution.

Registration requirements:
We have no specific entry requirements, other than a willingness to dive in and experience the week with a lot of enthousiasm! If more staff members apply than the 6 places are available, participants will be selected by lottery. When composing the final group, we will aim for a balanced representation of HEROES partner institutions.