Detection of territorial challenges and co-creation of knowledge

This paper describes the process of capturing challenges and the co-creation of knowledge at the Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB) through Challenge-Based Learning (CBL). In collaboration with the quadruple helix – citizens, public administration, universities and companies – real problems in the territory are identified and innovative and sustainable solutions are developed. The objectives of the research are: to examine the process of detecting challenges and their definition adapted to university teaching; to analyse the potential of CBL as a methodology for the co-creation of knowledge between the university and the territory; and to evaluate the impact of the solutions developed on local communities and students. The process includes meetings with the stakeholders involved to identify needs and the co-creation of solutions in collaboration with the students, guided by the teaching staff. The results show the feasibility of the model to solve real problems and improve student engagement.