Fontys Pulsed | Design-Based Learning

what design-based learning is

Pulsed’s vision of education is evidence informed based on Design Based Learning (DBL). DBL stands for design-oriented work on solutions to realistic problems, in which students systematically reflect on their learning process. During the realization of their thought of solutions, both product creation and testing play a crucial role. Involving real users and stakeholders at an early stage to collaborate on solving the problem is always a challenge, but it is key for creating actual impact. For example, designing solutions for everyday problems for/with people in wheelchairs, or enhancing the quality of life of demented elderly people for/with caregivers and patients.

what design-based learning means to us fontys pulsed

We believe that Design-Based Learning (DBL) provides an answer to the question of ‘how does one become a self-directed professional?’ In the last 30 years all kinds of didactic concepts based on the constructivist paradigm have been put into practice. Competence-Based education and forms of Problem-Based Learning are very common today. These student-centered approaches take authentic and realistic situations as the context for learning. However, these approaches have their limitations in the present time when developments are rapid and solutions not readily available.

design-based learning environment

Our learning environment here at Pulsed is set up to handle these rapid developments. At Pulsed, we delve into a much more iterative way of working. We don't have a generic step-by-step approach to addressing the issues that these rapid developments expose. In this Design-Based Learning approach, all stakeholders involved get a chance to learn by working together on these wicked challenges.

how we use design-based learning in our programs

We see Design-Based Learning as an integration of pedagogical and didactic building blocks, which is the promise we make to our students. In other words: These building blocks will be experienced by all students across all Pulsed programs. The buildings blocks of our DBL-approach are: open-ended challenges, student uniqueness: voice and choice, assessment of learning outcomes, Pulsed learning by play & game, make & test with prototypes.

Design-Based Learning puzzle pieces for Fontyspulsed

programs where we use design-based learning at fontys pulsed

Find the programs below in which we use the design-based learning approach.

A young female student listening during the minor Embrace TEC

not a minor
a major leap

minor program | Embrace TEC

Embrace is our hot and popular international program that blends cultures, disciplines and experiences. Get your hands dirty by applying and using TEC, which stands for the Technology, Entrepreneurship & Creativity.

1 semester
two semesters per year
blended education
full credits: 30 ECTS

change the
course of life

first-year program | empower TEC

Empower TEC: Technology, Entrepreneurship & Creativity is one-of-its kind educational program designed for students who have dropped out of their major and are figuring out what the next step will be.

1 semester
blended education
30 ECTS study load

A young male student showcasing his project during the minor Empower TEC

ready
to design
the future

master Digital Technology Engineering

Or mdte in short is our brand new international and professional Master's. A two-year long technical program that tackles the challenges posed by this world's digital transformation.

master of science degree
practice-based research
two years - 120 ECTS
full-time program

be the creator
of tomorrow

Associate degree | engineering

This Associate degree for Engineering is the latest program in our portfolio and is still being developed. The first start moment is planned for September 2022.

Once the program is live we will begin offering the next generation a solid-start towards becoming the professional engineers they aim to be. Get a preview below:

Pulsed students talking to seniors and showing off their shitty robots

fontys pulseddesign-based learning