Active learning gives students more control over the learning process, but that does not mean less classroom management is needed. In fact, more monitoring may be needed to ensure students are on task, understanding the objectives and activities correctly, and that problem students do not cause trouble for the group. Several kinds of activities can be used, including group discussions or presentations, or role-playing, and some activities are more high risk than others. Active learning may present barriers, including general, personal, professional, and (resource? logistical?). All of these can be overcome by keeping activities short and simple at the outset, using the resources on hand, creative use of the classroom space, and consultation with educational peers and administrators.
Acitive learning strategeis are very benefical for the adult learners. It is better to choose the low risk and high risk activitiese learning strategies.
Dana Redmond
Active learning allows the students to have some autonomy and control over their learning process. Be sure to be prepared with your active learning activities. Keep things breif and interesting.
This module increased my awareness of the various types of barriers to incorporating active learning activities and strategies to overcoming these barriers. I prefer to start with low-risk active learning activities and then through these activities, assess the students' readiness to participate in and learn from higher-risk active learning activities.
Start implementing active learning methods by planning for small activities first.
Active learning requires preparation. Know your expectations for the students for each active learning activity. The more specific, and clear the better
Low risk active learning strategies are great for science lab exercises. The activities can be alternated with brief periods of instruction and allow the students to make the connections. Active learning activites encourage students to work together and of course to learn together.
Active learning, while preferable, isn't always easy to implement for myriad reasons.
The fear of personal and professional barriers are often the cause of failure to adopt the methods. There is risk involved, especially with peers, but the results with Students more than compensates for this.
When I have a lot of content to cover, I like using short discussions mixed with lecture. Pick out a concept that may be complicated and let students discuss it. This helps me to evaluate if students are grasping material. I also like to pose questions such as what is the first thing you should do in X situation and why.
