The Analytical Report “Community-Based Learning in Higher Education” is published within UNESCO IITE–Shanghai Open University joint project aimed at promoting ICT capacity-building and open education. The publication explores the integration of digital technologies into community-based learning (CBL) initiatives at open and traditional universities.
The report outlines the theoretical fundamentals of community-based learning, including the growing scope of ‘community’ as a concept in CBL and broad and evolving definitions of CBL. It reviews eleven detailed case studies on the use of advanced digital technologies such as artificial intelligence and machine learning in CBL projects and programmes at specific universities, which can be seen as models for other HEIs seeking to establish or expand CBL initiatives or the application of digital technologies in learning.
The case studies explore different digital tools used in CBL, the overall design and context of their application in learning, objectives and intended learning outcomes of learning programmes involving digital technologies, modes of interaction with communities, features and challenges of using the chosen technologies, impacts of the programmes, and their sustainability and scalability. A summary of each case study outlining the specific context, design and impact of each initiative is provided in the Analytical Report as well.
The publication includes recommendations for community-based learning development at higher education institutions, derived from the analysis of the case studies and the evolving context of CBL and digital technologies for learning. These recommendations address some of the challenges of scaled and sustainable CBL practices within the broader context of the role of HEIs in supporting lifelong learning, ensuring access to learning, and formalizing CBL in university policies.