Session 2

How can materials be created that engage students actively in learning, reasoning, and research?

First, what is active learning? There are many answers to this question! One answer (although rather flip) would be, "Reflect on how you like to learn yourself!" Here are two formal definitions:

"opportunities for students to talk and listen, read, write, and reflect as they approach course content through problem solving exercises, informal small groups, simulations, case studies, role playing, and other activities--all of which require students to apply what they are learning."

Meyers and Jones, 1993, xi

"involving students in doing things and thinking about the things they are doing."

Bonwell and Eison 1991

 

Here are some ideas of active learning strategies:

• visual based instruction (as long as students are being directed to think, talk, do something with the visuals)
• writing in class (pose a question, give students a chance to think, write, share, debrief)
• problem solving
• decision making
• computer based instruction
• cooperative learning
• debate
• drama
• role playing, simulations, games
• peer teaching

See "Notes On Active Pedagogy" compiled and written by Susanne Moser and Susan Hanson, Clark University for more information. It is available from the Association of American Geographers and is an excellent resource on active learning, assessment, and teaching.