CHALLENGE BASED LEARNING PROJECTS

Challenge-based learning is a dynamic and engaging approach to education that goes beyond the traditional classroom setting. It empowers students by presenting them with real-world problems or challenges and encouraging them to find innovative solutions. Rather than simply memorizing facts, challenge-based learning encourages critical thinking, collaboration, and creativity. This model was implemented since Spring 2023 at Prepa UDEM for the second year students.

This unique educational model helped students become active participants in the different academies. Being a human-centered approach, CBL involves identifying a problem or need, brainstorming ideas, prototyping solutions, testing them out in the real world, and refining them until an effective solution is found. To follow this process, students worked on several activities in different classes to create a final product.

An exposition took place at the end of the semester. The projects created were shown in each of the high schools so that students and community members could appreciate and enjoy the projects.

The following article was written by Yessica Regina Garza, a student who attended the exhibition.


The Design Thinking Exposition, organized by Ms. Andrea, Ms. Carolina Sáenz, and Ms. Amanda Tamez, was a remarkable event held at Prepa Udem Valle Alto. This exposition represented the culmination of months of hard work by the 4th-semester students who enthusiastically embraced the design thinking method—a proven approach used by innovators to create groundbreaking products. Following the design thinking steps of empathize, define, ideate, prototype, and test, the students embarked on a journey of understanding the challenges faced by their target consumers. Diligent research enabled them to reimagine existing products, infusing them with ingenious improvements. The participants' innovations were assessed by experienced judges, who evaluated the projects based on their merits. The team that secures the first-place position will be rewarded with a perfect score of 100 on the subject, providing an extra incentive for the students to pour their hearts and minds into this creative endeavor.

I attended the exposition with great curiosity to explore the showcased products, and one particularly intriguing item caught my attention. Named "Insualarms," it was a creation by the talented team known as Sticky Buzz, comprising Karla Garcia, Ana Karen Molina, Maria Fernanda Garza, and Martha Cavazos. Their innovation targeted individuals dealing with insulin-related issues, especially those with diabetes. The "Insualarms" is ingeniously designed as an alarm system that adheres to the user's body using medical tape. It prompts the user to administer their insulin at the appropriate times, ensuring timely medication. Notably, the alarm deactivates when it comes into contact with human skin, a smart and user-friendly feature. Remarkably, the students shared that they were inspired by the functionality of Apple watches, incorporating a similar concept into their creation.
Witnessing the passion and creativity of these young minds, I was deeply impressed by the potential impact "Insualarms" could have on improving the lives of people managing insulin-related challenges. Their dedication to applying innovative solutions was truly commendable.

Allow me to introduce you to the fascinating creation known as the "Relaxing Experience," skillfully presented by Santiago Martinez, Julio Cavazos, and Valentina Ocampo. This innovative prototype garnered well-deserved attention at the exposition. The "Relaxing Experience" takes the form of a spacious box or room where users can immerse themselves in a world of relaxation and tranquility. Upon entering, a member of the team places an Oculus Quest on the user, providing a variety of options to choose from. Users can indulge in captivating landscapes, soothing music, interactive games, or simply unwind and find solace within. Remarkably, the "Relaxing Experience" secured an impressive 2nd place in their classroom, a testament to the ingenuity and hard work of the team. However, it was not without its challenges. The team candidly shared that creating the box or room proved to be quite daunting, as they faced limitations with their budget. Resourceful and determined, they ultimately opted for cardboard as the primary material, skillfully fashioning their vision into reality. The dedication and resilience exhibited by the "Relaxing Experience" team in bringing their concept to life are truly inspiring. Their ability to overcome obstacles and provide a sense of calm and escape to others is a testament to their creative brilliance and problem-solving skills. The dedication and resilience exhibited by the "Relaxing Experience" team in bringing their concept to life are truly inspiring. Their ability to overcome obstacles and provide a sense of calm and escape to others is a testament to their creative brilliance and problem-solving skills.
Presenting the impressive "Happy Kalendir" project, brought to life by the talented team "Calendarios Maya," consisting of Roberto Benavides, Roberto Gonzales, Bruno Chavana, and Alec Farias. This interactive calendar boasted an array of features, including motivational phrases, a spinning wheel, a dart table, and inspiring messages. The target audience for this innovative creation was teenagers plagued by procrastination, aiming to instill motivation and boost productivity in their lives.
During my visit to the exposition, I had the pleasure of conversing with one of the judges, Ms. Sori. Besides her judging role, she actively engaged with students in the Maker Space, guiding them in crafting their prototypes. Proudly commending the participants, she acknowledged the challenges they faced due to limited materials. Despite this, she expressed delight in witnessing how the products exceeded her expectations, signifying the students' ingenuity and resourcefulness. Ms. Sori also joyfully emphasized the thrill she experienced while being a judge.
Another insightful interview was with Ms. Carolina Sáenz, one of the organizers. She enthused about the incredible experience, highlighting the extensive range of products, with approximately 8 to 9 teams per classroom participating. The project spanned an entire semester, making her immensely proud of her students' accomplishments and the outcomes of their hard work.
In conclusion, this exposition serves as an excellent platform for the newer generation to harness their creativity and technology prowess to tackle diverse challenges. It showcases the effectiveness of the Design Thinking method, demonstrating that anyone with the desire to innovate can bring forth remarkable solutions. Such events not only inspire but also foster a culture of ingenuity and problem-solving among young minds.