Challenge-Based Learning in Dental Education

Challenge-based learning (CBL) is a novel learning framework for a collaborative and multidisciplinary learning experience. It allows students, teachers, stakeholders, researchers, families, and society to work together to identify and solve real-world challenges. CBL helps students develop a deeper knowledge of the subjects they are studying. The concepts of CBL originate from a variety of educational theories and approaches, such as problem-based learning and inquiry-based learning. The precursor to the CBL framework is problem-based learning. However, unlike in problem-based learning and other approaches, students formulate the challenges they will address in CBL. Furthermore, students need to create a solution resulting in concrete action. CBL takes into account the social impact of an idea rather than just the corporate benefits. Therefore, it can help students expand the scope and depth of learning, encourage teamwork capabilities, and raise their awareness about considering quality and ethics in decision-making. CBL is implemented in universities, schools, and institutions worldwide and its use is well-recognized in science, engineering, and medicine, but it has not been translated into dentistry. The aim of this paper is to describe the concept of inclusion, principles and design, implementation, and supervision of the CBL framework in a dental course for the adaption of this learning framework to dental education.