What is…Active Learning?

Summary

Active learning is a learner-centered teaching approach that engages students by encouraging them to apply, analyze, and synthesize prior knowledge. This method, grounded in learning science, aims to enhance knowledge retention and deepen the learning experience. Educators shift from being information disseminators to facilitators of learning, using techniques like questioning, discussion, and structured activities. Active learning strategies include debates, group work, case studies, and project-based learning, all designed to foster reflection, problem-solving, and collaboration, leading to improved student outcomes and deeper understanding.

Takeaways

• 😀 Active learning refers to a broad range of learner-centered teaching strategies that engage students in their learning.
• 😀 This approach is grounded in evidence from learning science to enhance the effectiveness of learning experiences.
• 😀 Active learning allows learners to apply, analyze, and synthesize prior knowledge to create personal meaning.
• 😀 The result of active learning is often increased knowledge retention, deeper learning experiences, and improved learner outcomes.
• 😀 The educator's role shifts from being a disseminator of information to being a facilitator of learning.
• 😀 Facilitating learning involves using techniques such as questioning, discussion, and structured learning experiences.
• 😀 Active learning experiences help learners to listen, think, reflect, write, problem-solve, and create.
• 😀 Learners also receive clarification and guidance from educators as needed during the active learning process.
• 😀 Examples of active learning methods include discussions, debates, group work, case studies, and simulations.
• 😀 Other examples of active learning include student presentations, team-based problem-solving, project-based learning, and patient encounters.

Q & A

What is the main focus of active learning?

The main focus of active learning is engaging learners as active participants in their own learning process, allowing them to apply, analyze, and synthesize prior knowledge to create personal meaning.

How does active learning improve knowledge retention?

Active learning improves knowledge retention by involving learners in meaningful activities that encourage them to interact with the material, thereby deepening their understanding and making the knowledge more memorable.

What role does the educator play in active learning?

In active learning, the educator shifts from being a disseminator of information to a facilitator of learning, guiding students through structured activities that promote reflection, discussion, and problem-solving.

Why is the shift from information dissemination to facilitation important in active learning?

The shift is important because it allows educators to create a learning environment where students are actively involved in the process, encouraging critical thinking, deeper understanding, and more effective learning outcomes.

What are some examples of active learning experiences?

Examples of active learning experiences include discussion and debate, group work, case studies, simulations, student presentations, project-based learning, and patient encounters.

How does active learning lead to deeper learning experiences?

Active learning leads to deeper learning by requiring students to engage in higher-order thinking activities such as analyzing, synthesizing, and applying knowledge, which encourages them to form connections and build a deeper understanding.

What types of activities are involved in active learning?

Active learning activities include questioning, discussion, group work, problem-solving, case studies, simulations, and project-based learning, all designed to encourage students to engage with the content and each other.

How do discussions and debates contribute to active learning?

Discussions and debates promote active learning by encouraging students to articulate their ideas, listen to others, critically evaluate arguments, and defend their perspectives, thereby deepening their understanding of the subject matter.

What is the significance of group work in active learning?

Group work fosters peer collaboration and allows students to learn from each other, providing opportunities for collective problem-solving and diverse perspectives, which enhances the learning process.

How does project-based learning fit into active learning?

Project-based learning fits into active learning by involving students in long-term, hands-on projects that require them to apply knowledge and skills to real-world problems, encouraging teamwork, research, and creative problem-solving.