An innovative experience in the Law Degree programme: the integration of challenge-based learning in the Final Degree Project

Abstract

This article presents a pilot experience developed at the Faculty of Law of the Universidad Autónoma de Barcelona. The Final Degree Project (FDP) is an exceptional opportunity to introduce innovative methodologies that link academic learning with social reality. In this framework, Challenge-Based Learning (CBL) emerges as an interdisciplinary approach that allows students to work in teams to solve real challenges proposed by external actors, such as, in the case study, local councils. Through this innovative teaching project, students in the final year of the Law degree and other university degrees have integrated the challenge of proposing solutions to ensure the sustainable development of cities (SDG 11) into their dissertations, strengthening skills such as critical thinking, problem solving and collaborative work. The multidisciplinary teams of students have tackled this problem by defining specific sub-challenges that have been translated into concrete and applicable proposals in the territory. This approach, which combines practical learning and reflection, has enabled students to acquire transferable skills for their professional future, while helping to generate positive social impact. In short, the CBL proves to be a transformative educational tool that can redefine the link between university and society, turning the FDP course into an experience with real value.