This book explores the innovative problem solving approaches and pedagogical models developed in the Innovation Learning Lab (ILL), providing educators, policy makers, and teachers with practical strategies for fostering transformative education. It reframes the emphasis from product-based outcomes toward student-centered learning, presenting ILLs as dynamic environments capable of nurturing responsible innovators.

The discussion unfolds across four interconnected contexts that shape the role of ILLs today. It considers how these laboratories address gaps in 21st century skills identified by the World Economic Forum while supporting progress toward the UN Sustainable Development Goals. It also explores new ways of reimagining teaching and learning innovation and highlights how learners can be empowered as multicompetent problem solvers. In addition, it illustrates the application of generative, design-led problem solving methods within contemporary educational settings.

Through the perspectives of students, educators, experts, and industry partners, the book investigates the physical, cultural, and organisational dimensions of ILLs and the influence these factors have on collaboration and learning. It underscores the importance of interdisciplinary skills, responsible innovation, and the human-centred integration of AI in educational models.

This volume serves as an essential resource for all those working to shape education capable of responding to climate change, complex societal challenges, and the rapidly evolving landscape of artificial intelligence.

Christine Thong, is the Academic Director of Design Factory Melbourne at Swinburne University of Technology, leading interdisciplinary student programs using experiential, challenge-based learning as part of an Innovation Lab for 10+ years. Programs include international collaborations with institutions like Stanford University and CERN. Christine’s expertise in design innovation learning programs is demonstrated in recent book chapters published by OUP and Springer collections: “Big Science, Innovation & Societal Contributions”, “Design Thinking in Education”, and “New Challenges and Opportunities in Physics Education.“

Anita Kocsis, is the Director of Design Factory Melbourne at Swinburne University of Technology, championing the interdisciplinary relationships across university, government, and industry stakeholders for the DFM Innovation Lab to thrive with purpose for 10+ years. She has published and given invited presentations on such topics, including recent book chapters published by OUP and Springer collections; “Big Science, Innovation & Societal Contributions” and “New Challenges and Opportunities in Physics Education.“

Stefan Siemsen, is a professional proofreader, editor, and translator of academic, scientific, and literary works.

Pablo Garcia Tello, Section Head of New Projects & Initiatives at CERN's EU Office, is leading IdeaSquare, CERN’s innovation space. He has published over 50 scientific papers in top international peer-reviewed journals and conferences and holds more than 10 international patents in micro/nanotechnology and biotechnology. Dr. Garcia Tello actively participates in European Commission-funded innovation initiatives such as ATTRACT (application of deep tech for commercial and societal benefit) and has co-authored interdisciplinary book chapters in Big Science, Innovation & Societal contributions.

Marilena Streit-Bianchi, Throughout her career at CERN, the European Organization for Nuclear Research, Dr Streit-Bianchi was a pioneer in high-energy particle physics for cancer treatment, examining the effects of radiation on living organisms. She has held leadership positions in safety training and technology transfer. Dr. Streit-Bianchi has co-edited many interdisciplinary and educational books, including "CERN: Science Bridging Cultures," "Mare Plasticum – The Plastic Sea. Combatting Plastic Pollution Through Science and Art"; "Advances in Cosmology  Science Art Philosophy";  "Big Science Innovation and Societal Contributions"; "New Challenges and Opportunities in Physics Education."  "New Frontiers of Science in the  Era of AI" and "Scienza Arte Tecnologia Alleate per l'ambiente". She also curated exhibitions promoting the fusion of art and science in Europe and Mozambique.