Skip to content
Open access

Engineering Innovation: Impact of AI and SDGs in a Challenge-Based Environment

Jul 2026 · Knowledge · Vol 6, pp. 18 · 0 citations · 25 references

Abstract

The rapid integration of generative artificial intelligence (AI) into higher education raises questions about its pedagogical value and its role in sustainability-oriented learning. This study investigates the use of AI in a Challenge-Based Learning (CBL) engineering hackathon (INDUSHack) focused on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), examining patterns of AI adoption, perceived benefits and risks, and its contribution to SDG integration in project design. A descriptive exploratory design was employed, collecting questionnaire data from 60 undergraduate participants and complementing these with expert committee evaluations of project outcomes. Results indicate widespread AI use, primarily for idea generation, information synthesis, and project structuring. Participants reported perceived improvements in efficiency, creativity, and the clarity of SDG alignment; however, difficulties persisted in translating sustainability concepts into measurable, technically grounded criteria. The findings suggest that while AI can support learning processes and sustainability framing in CBL environments, its effective use requires structured guidance and critical AI literacy to ensure meaningful integration of SDGs.

Read PDF

Similar papers

Review Open access Aug 2026

Artificial intelligence and the pursuit of SDG 4: A SWOT–TOWS analysis of educational transformations and strategic pathways

Artificial intelligence (AI) is increasingly recognized as a transformative force for enhancing the quality, equity, and accessibility of education and for accelerating progress toward Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG 4), quality education. This study adopts a conceptual analysis approach, integrating a focused expl...

Alsaeed Alshamy, K. Alabri, M. Garcia et al. · 0 citations
Review Open access Aug 2026

Generative AI for Sustainable Education: A Systematic Review of Opportunities, Challenges and Future Directions

The study concludes that the long-term sustainability of GenAI in education depends on balancing technological innovation with environmental transparency and ethical stewardship, advocating for longitudinal research to monitor future cognitive and ecological impacts.

Sneha.V.K Sneha.V.K · 0 citations
Open access Aug 2026

Teacher practices and challenges in AI-integrated EFL instruction: A case study from an underdeveloped region

Findings reveal that the teacher's engagement is non-linear and front-loaded: while Behavioral Engagement peaked during the Design and Development phases through active material generation, it significantly declined during the Implementation phase due to infrastructural anxiety and instability.

Nasai Danzeng · 0 citations
Open access Aug 2026

Scaling Complex Thinking: A Conceptual Framework for AI-Supported Inquiry-Based Learning

A holistic framework that integrates inquiry-based learning (IBL) with artificial intelligence (AI) to support learning is proposed, arguing that the sustainability of such a system depends on shifting assessment from content mastery to measurable complex thinking skills.

Lori B. Doyle, Jill L. Swisher · 0 citations
Review Open access Aug 2026

The Paradigm Shift in Education: Stakeholder Perceptions of Generative AI in Teaching–Learning Dynamics

The study explores the paradigm shift in education brought about by the introduction of generative artificial intelligence (AI) tools, focusing on educational stakeholders’ self-reported perceptions rather than observed changes in teaching or learning outcomes. We consider stakeholders’ views on AI-based technologies w...

Stoica Silviu-Ionel, Vasciuc Sandulescu Cristina Gabriela · 0 citations

We use cookies to run the site and, with your consent, for analytics and to show ads. See our Cookie Policy.