This presentation examines how two Irish universities implemented a collaborative strategy to transition from isolated active learning practices to a scalable ecosystem of Team-Based Learning (TBL). Supported by Pathfinder funding, the project focused on early steps to build capacity, foster cross-campus engagement, and secure institutional commitment.
The work began with a scoping phase to understand staff readiness and identify opportunities for adoption. Introductory workshops across both institutions enabled faculty to experience TBL’s core components, including readiness assurance and team application tasks, while demonstrating how digital tools, such as LAMS, can simplify design and delivery. These sessions generated strong interest among lecturers from diverse disciplines, creating a shared language for pedagogical change.
A major milestone was the launch of a 15-credit Certificate in Team-Based Learning. This program enabled participants to redesign modules, implement TBL in live settings, and join peer-learning communities. Feedback highlighted significant shifts in classroom dynamics as students became more engaged, collaborative, and motivated. Reports of increased belonging and clarity of expectations underscored TBL’s potential to strengthen retention.
Cross-institutional collaboration extended to leadership engagement. Bringing senior university leaders to observe a mature TBL ecosystem in the UK proved transformative. Leaders saw how coordinated strategies, purpose-built spaces, and digital infrastructure enable scaling to thousands of students. This experience validated the vision for an Irish TBL Hub and positioned TBL as an institutional priority.
In a context shaped by generative AI and retention challenges, TBL offers a human-centred response that cultivates judgment, reasoning, and collaboration. This presentation will share lessons from these first steps, illustrating how relational, scaffolded development and cross-campus partnerships can catalyse cultural change and lay the foundation for a national TBL hub.
