Promoting Space Science and Technology in the University of Cádiz with Project-Based Learning

Traditional education in engineering has been based on a "chalk and talk" model for years. The digital era and the fact that students should develop skills adapted to the current working market, however, reflect the need of alternative or complementary pedagogical methods. One of these methods is Project-Based Learning (PBL). This methodology makes the students play a primary role in their education and can be summarized as follows: they work on a realistic project with a specific objective so that they need to research, collaborate, develop critical thinking, creativity, and communication. In 2018, we started carrying out Space Science and Technology PBL at the Engineering School of the University of Cádiz. Up to now we have had successful results by applying this method: An educational nanosatellite is being developed within the context of PBL at the University with the support of the ESA Education Office. Consequently, both the students and some of our colleagues (with little or no experience in the area) are improving their knowledge in Space and Science technology, an attractive yet underrepresented field in the educational programs of the University.