Implementation of a Challenge-Based Learning Model for Higher Education under a Modular Education System: A Case Study

Abstract

As student profiles and industry expectations modify, universities must advance learning methodologies to deliver more suitable graduates to the labor market. The Universidad Privada Boliviana (UPB) has developed experiential learning practices by implementing challenge-based learning (CBL) to enrich undergraduate curricula. One example of the CBL experiences was developed by the Taquiña Brewery, one of the five breweries of the Cervecería Boliviana Nacional (CBN), for the Industrial and Systems Engineering Department of the UPB between 2018 and 2019. As a result, students widely accepted the methodology, and academics from all disciplines in the university were trained to replicate CBL experiences in their classrooms. Moreover, the CBN found the opportunity to hire new talent, receive a fresh perspective on recurrent operational issues, and find new ideas based on theoretical concepts. This work exemplifies innovative approaches to enhance teaching and learning in supply chain management and logistics education.