In my Master's program, we explored the framework for "backwards design" in education (1. Learning objectives 2. Assessment 3. Learning activities), and I'm glad this module highlighted some of these principles. First, you must develop the learning objectives and then determine the assessment methods and appropriate learning activities. In other words, having a well-organized plan is essential for creating meaningful learning experiences. I will definitely use the six-step approach when developing an active learning exercise.
Additionally, I appreciated the breakdown of critical thinking and analytical thinking. The examples were beneficial and applicable to clinical education! Nurse educators want students to think critically and apply clinical judgment in nursing practice; however, students don't always know what critical thinking means or how to use it at the bedside.
Active learning encourages students to think critically.
There are so many ways critical thinking is used. Trying to educate while using critical thinking and analytical thinking exercises especially in nursing is going to be so important in ensuring success of students. With nursing being application based, a new nurse needs to graduate from their program with not only the basic knowledge, but how to utilize these critical and analytic thinking skills.
Wow--looks like our curriculum needs some work on developing more active learning! Our issue is that there is so much information to teach that it's difficult to find the time to do any of the suggested learning activities--which is unfortunate, as these learning activities help to engage the students and to deepen their knowledge--or the students do not want to do them
I thought that the analytical thinking activities were fun and engaging and am going to incorporate them as a way to open up my class.
Comment on Patricia Bennett's post: The statement that there is no learning taking place when no teaching is taking place resonated with me because when I taught for the first time, my principal's favorite quote was " A lesson is not taught until it is learned"
This reinforced the six components of active learning for me. The more active and engaged the students are the more they learn and/or are receptive to the material being provided.
I love the tips for planning for active learning activities! I used all of these last school year as a public-school teacher.
I loved the examples of active learning activities provided and I intend to implement discussions, debates, and role-playing.
I enjoyed the examples of analytical and critical thinking.
I like engaging students in multiple ways in order to have them become active in the learning process.
Given the fast pace of the course I teach and its difficulty level, the active learning methods are necessary but will have to be very efficient. A lot of thought and preparation will be required.
Active learning can improve educational outcomes.
I learned that given specific expectations will allow the students to know the kind of responds that are desired.
great reminder of different techniques to keep the students engaged and learning for all
Active learning is ideal for students who are learning new concepts because it encourages and stimulates critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
As an instructor, I plan to create learning activities that stimulate active learning and participation during lecture and class discussions.
Active learning can be achieved from other sources such as the internet, library, reference materials, and other students. Successful active learning requires planning ahead and organized.
It's always best to make a class more interactive including group discussions, group activities, and include case studies which will enhance critical and analytical thinking.
Interaction always mentally stimulating, thought provoking and makes learning a more pleasurable experience.
