Active learning is a process whereby students engage in activities, such as reading, writing, discussion, or problem solving that promote critical thinking skills (analysis, synthesis, and evaluation) in learning class content. Cooperative learning, problem-based learning, and the use of case methods and simulations are some approaches that promote active learning.
The successful classroom of the future involves creating engaging environments where students and their learning are the center focus of education. Using active learning does not mean abandoning the lecture format, but incorporating opportunities for students to work with the information presented. Active learning often times involves using technology in the classroom. The video is a great example of how to use Active Learning in the 21st century.
Ten Benefits of Active Learning Drawn from Theory
1. Students are more likely to access their own prior knowledge, which is a key to learning.
2. Students are more likely to find personally meaningful problem solutions or interpretations.
3. Students receive more frequent and more immediate feedback.
4. The need to produce forces learners to retrieve information from memory rather than simply recognizing a correct statement.
5. Students increase their self-confidence and self-reliance.
6. For most learners, it is more motivating to be active than passive.
7. A task that you have done yourself or as part of a group is more highly valued.
8. Student conceptions of knowledge change, which in turn has implications for cognitive development.
9. Students who work together on active learning tasks learn to work with other people of different backgrounds and attitudes.
10. Students learn strategies for learning itself by observing others.