Active Learning: how to
Active learning: evolution or revolution?
Active learning is an educational approach that can be embraced fully by a faculty, program or course. This more ‘revolutionary’ approach requires a complete overhaul of educational practices. One could also take a more evolutionary approach. For instance, by integrating active learning components in existing instructional activities. These range from small additions such as peer reviews or discussions, to making students responsible for part of a course.
Active learning considerations
Using active learning requires a shift in mindset and activities for both teachers and students. In the table below, we provide an overview of some of the considerations that need to be taken into account while integrating active learning (components) into courses or programs.
When in doubt, start small
When interested in embracing active learning, it might be advisable to start with small experiments. For instance, by integrating active learning components into existing courses or to adapt a minor course. The results could help to investigate outcomes (e.g. through assessments and student surveys) but also make an inventory of some of the considerations mentioned in the table above.
Considerations |
Description |
Potential bottlenecks |
|
New roles for teachers |
Active learning requires the teachers to take on new roles; enabling learners in their learning process. |
Self-perception of teachers on their roles, educational tradition & culture, and teacher skills. |
| New roles for students |
Students need to take active control over their learning process and engage in higher order learning. |
Incentives for students to become active learning; assessment should reflect active learning approach. |
| Defining learning goals |
Active learning strives to move beyond remembering and understanding to higher order learning. |
Educational tradition, change in focus (Bloom’s taxonomy). |
| New instructional activities |
Active learning requires designing new instructional activities. |
Teacher skills in designing active learning activities. |
| Role of technology |
Technology such as collaboration tools or sharing platforms can facilitate the active learning by students. |
Teacher & student skills in using relevant technologies; security and privacy issues with external tools. |
