Theme of 2026: Context and Learning

The theme for the Teaching and Learning Conference 2026 is Context and Learning. Students are often heard saying ‘But I'll never use that - why should I learn it?’, and exactly this is what we aim to address. Contextualized learning is a learning approach in which knowledge and skills are embedded in a real and / or meaningful context. For example, teaching and learning in inter- and transdisciplinary settings, reflecting the interlinkedness of academia, different disciplines and approaches and the real world. Rather than learning in isolation, learning content is linked to the learners' contexts and lives in order to enable a deeper understanding and promote the sustainability of learning. Contextualized learning focusses on anchoring theory by putting it into practice, linking it to other areas (subjects, social issues, personal interests) and promoting scientific literacy.

The conference will address teaching and learning approaches and scenarios focussing on competences (knowledge, skills, and attitudes) in four key areas of learning and context:

• Teaching and learning context: Methodology such as problem-based learning and Challenge-based education CBE
• Physical context: Innovative teaching spaces and learning environments
• Subject-based context: Trans- and interdisciplinary approaches in teaching
• Work context: Situating learning in the context of real fields of work, jobs, and tasks. Collaborating with external partners from the world of work.