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Publishing of book 'Learning in a Living Lab'

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June 13, 2024

The practical book 'Learning in a Living Lab', published last February, is a timely resource for instructors and students who are working on complex societal issues across diverse disciplinary backgrounds. ELS PhD-candidate Mirthe van den Hee, whose research also involves living lab-education, was one of the co-authors.

Society faces a number of problems with so many interdependent factors that they seem impossible to solve. To find solutions for these wicked problems the world needs the collaboration of creative problem solvers from different disciplines, people who ‘know what to do when they don’t know what to do’. Higher education has created an environment where these problem solvers come together: a living lab.

Lab education takes place in a real-life context, where a number of problem solvers from various backgrounds research, develop, learn and innovate in collaboration with end-users of participants. Creativity, future skills, research, interdisciplinary learning, leadership, self-management, working and learning in team, assessment… All this and more is explored in this book, so that anyone can learn about ‘learning in a living lab’.

This handbook is written for higher education instructors keen on interdisciplinary learning, creativity, and problem solving who want to explore the possibilities of teaching and learning in uncertain times. Selected chapters include: Inter- and transdisciplinary learning, wicked problems, creative problem skills, future skills, authentic leadership, team learning, deeper learning, self-motivation, self-management and research.

The handbook has many practical exercises designed to support students learning in their current educational context. Exercises focus on reflection, practical assignments, case studies, to encourage interactive discussion with fellow students. The detailed glossary provides an overview of terms, concepts, and models.

Do you know what to do when you don't know what to do?

More information: https://www.borgerhoff-lamberigts.be/owl-press/shop/boeken/learning-in-a-living-lab?variant=106003

Contact person: Mirthe van den Hee / mirthe.vandenhee@wur.nl