The learning methodology challenge-based learning (CBL) is based on a pedagogical approach to experiential learning that brings students closer to the real world by involving them in a particular problem that the teacher deems interesting to take on, in order to consider solutions for a specific situation.
The term challenge-based learning was coined by Apple in the first decade of the 21st century; although it was applied to basic teaching in the beginning, it has now been generalized to all levels of teaching and in all subjects and areas of knowledge. The main benefits of this learning methodology notably include that students become aware of different current events around them; it encourages initiative, decision-making, and responsibility; and it favors students developing research and action processes working collaboratively and within multiple disciplines. The professor’s role is precisely to provide the appropriate resources and environment so that the activity can be carried out, considering that student experiences arise from interactions between them and their environment.
In this context, a joint challenge was set for the 2017/2018 academic year between the Communications subject from the bachelor’s degree in Marketing, Business Administration subject from the bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, and the management of the Young Social Entrepreneurs program at Universidad Europea based on the organization of the First Social Entrepreneurship and Management Workshop.
This educational activity aimed to develop two of the most in-demand skills for their young graduates at the moment: entrepreneurial spirit and the ability to manage innovative business projects. However, these skills must always be sustained on a basis of responsibility and shared values.
Indeed, it is common to find entrepreneurs who are severely lacking in terms of ethics and principles when making decisions and managing their businesses. Therefore, the professors of the degrees associated with the social sciences must encourage entrepreneurship and business administration with regard to responsible and sustainable projects that add value to society as a whole.
We believe that social entrepreneurs are the best reference for developing educational activity aimed at attaining this overall goal, as they are people who are characteristically innovative, have a great sense of responsibility and a clear commitment to the community, which comes to fruition in the development of an entrepreneurial initiative motivated by a desire to help others and change society.
The First Social Entrepreneurship and Management Meeting took place to encourage this spirit among our students. The Students organized the entire workshop, each from the basis of a subject they are currently studying. The management of the Young Social Entrepreneur Awards provided support throughout.
In addition to learning how to organize an event and all the communications actions necessary to spread the word, the students became more aware of the importance and purpose of the social side of entrepreneurship and the positive impact that a commitment to it can have on the community. In short, we wanted our students to meet the young social entrepreneurs and learn about their entrepreneurial projects so as to awaken their interest in these issues, which may inspire them for their professional futures and contribute to making the world a better place.
