Open Education with Active Pedagogies in Innovation Laboratories: Roles, Activities, Skills and Methodologies

Social and Educational Innovation Laboratories emerged as spaces to develop solutions to real problems based on the principles of open education, collaboration and knowledge exchange. By examining the roles, activities and skills performed by participants as well as the methodologies adopted in a laboratory setting, this study attempts to guide the design and development of these innovation spaces, to improve their effectiveness and potential impact. Focused on three main roles: project promoters, specialized mentors and collaborators, a mixed method, descriptive and transversal approach was applied to data obtained through a survey. Findings confirmed that the role of promoters was valuable in facilitating project development and active participation of collaborators in practical activities, while mentoring supported real-world applications and the development of professional networks and skills. Overall, collaborators benefited from both the promoters and mentors' input in a collaborative environment. Challenges and positive factors are reported too. Moreover, diverse methodologies can coexist in a laboratory, leading to the creation of effective solutions. In sum, designing innovation laboratories founded in constructivist learning theories and active learning, balancing structure and flexibility, along with access to expert support and experiential collaboration result in educational experiences that are more meaningful and of greater impact.