Problem-based learning factories for enhanced knowledge creation

As the industry implements Industry 4.0 technologies, manufacturing systems become more interconnected. This interconnection is not only based on core technical competencies but also contextual competencies enabling manufacturing innovation. Based on authentic representations of manufacturing equipment, learning factories show promising results in creating these competencies. However, the learning approach of the learning factories is often less mature than the technical setup. Well-developed learning approaches exist outside of learning factories, and adapting such can be beneficial. One such approach is problem-based learning, where the problem is the point of departure in a project- and group-oriented, open-ended investigation of exemplary cases. This study investigates how the well-developed learning approach 'problem-based learning' can serve as a learning approach for a learning factory. The results show that problem-based learning enhances the learning factory's setting, processes, and product. This result implies a beneficial approach to manufacturing innovation competencies through learning factories.