The details into active learning have been a pleasure to learn. Even the considerations at the institutional level outside of the course were things to consider.
Since the active learning style of teaching requires the student(s) to be responsible for their education, it is the instructor's responsibility to explain how it is effective and why it is important. They must care and believe in its value.
I've found that the approach taken in providing feedback to students affects how they receive the information. Students also need to understand that constructive feedback & alignment cues (activity class) is not meant to be criticism on what they're doing wrong. Rather, it's input provided to empower them to do their personal best. This is communicated at the beginning of every semester.
Instructors as well as students need to have technological knowledge . Everyone assumes that in today's society that most have technology in computers and internet. There are many that are computer literat. If schools are going to online courses instructors and students need to be educated to perform at their best.
I learned that you should have a backup plan in place and ready if you need it.
Misconceptions of students' learning online are that they take away the teacher's influence and limited students' interactions.
I learned to incorporate 15 min. videos explaining important theory objectives. I have attended university courses in which the professor has mini lecture clips, I found them helpful.
When the instructor uses an active learning environment in thier classroom they need to make sure that each student understands the values of the course and provide specific instructions to students how to communicate with the instructor, use the reasources available to avoid the students from brecoming frustrated and agitated while taking the course.
This generation no matter at what level they are, expect to be spoon-fed the information, and when the professor dosn/t do that it reflected poorly on them as an instructor. I agreed that active learning is one of the best methods to get the students involved.
I think using blackboard and LMS might be benifical.
"One of the biggest barriers in implementing active teaching techniques is the instructor's attitude."
This statement caught my interest from the start. I have always found that the instructor's attitude is the most important thing in teaching in any classroom or in implementing new ideas/teaching techniques. I've seen this from both sides and everyone suffers. When an instructor is not willing to try new ideas and techniques everyone suffers and when the students are not being taught with the latest techniques and strategies, the students are not ready for the workforce.
When going back to school, most students are not sure of what they should be doing, they are confused, and they need an instructor that can help facilitate them and help guide them and encourage them in the right direction for the individual. Having great instructors/facilitators helps motivate students and they are more engaged in the learning process, online and F2F. They also score higher on an overall average.
Misconceptions of “Active Learning” for e-learners is the difficulty of the work assignments. E-learners may find work more difficult and time consuming than learners in traditional classroom settings. Incorporating active learning techniques preset opportunities to build and test their knowledge without barriers to impede on fulfilling goals of self-actualization. A goal moving forward is to assure learners know upfront the expectations for the course as well as ideas on how to be successful.
Being prepared and having alternate plans in case technology fails is a must for successful online learning. Online learning cannot be successful without proper technology.
It is important to make sure technology is working properly and have a plan B
This module dealt with barriers I haven't encountered. Instructor and student resistance to active learning. I've been using an active learning approach for four years now, and have not encountered student resistance... fortunately. Technology is key in making active learning work online. The lack of support of online instructors by F2F instructors was interesting. Good points there about online instructors being well supported.
So far I've been pleased with the students' responses to being asked to work in groups, to problem solve collaboratively or come prepared in advance with answers or solutions (TBL). It does, however, take additional time to design and prepare in advance. The Active Learning activities should be explained in advance so the students have an opportunity to ask questions for further clarification when needed.
I agree, failing technology or issues with mediums such as Zoom or other platforms is very frustrating for both the instructor and th students. Having plan B is a great idea. In addition, I learned how important it is for students to take responsibility for their learning and for the development of self-reflection and critical thinking.
Students must have equipment that meets requirements, Wifi that is uninterrupted, Technology help is mandatory, and students must be willing to problem solve to effectively engage in the course.
I learned the importance of laying the groundwork with students early on in the course. Help them understand the amount of work and the active learning model. I believe this will create a successful environment.
I like the ide of breaking it down from 5-15 minute sessions with case studies and students feedback.
Dr. Anton Hawatmeh
