Active learning improves engagement and retention, but may overwhelm students and require more time and preparation.
This module helped me understand that while active learning is highly effective, it also comes with limitations and common misconceptions—especially in online environments. One major misconception is that active learning means the instructor loses control of the class. In reality, the instructor’s role shifts from being the “sage on the stage” to a facilitator who guides, structures, and supports learning. When done well, active learning is actually more intentional and structured, not less .
Another misconception is that students will automatically engage or be prepared to take responsibility for their learning. In practice, some students may resist active learning because it requires more effort, accountability, and participation. This can sometimes be interpreted as a weakness of the method, when in fact it highlights the need for clear expectations, guidance, and support.
The module also highlighted several real limitations, such as:
Time and effort required for instructors to design meaningful activities
Technology challenges in online environments (platform issues, access, reliability)
Potential inequities, where some students may struggle more due to access or skill gaps
The need for a backup plan when technology fails
What stood out to me is that active learning is most effective when it is well-planned and balanced. It’s not about making everything interactive, but about choosing strategies that truly support learning outcomes.
Going forward, I plan to apply this by:
Setting clear expectations so students understand their role in active learning
Designing structured activities that guide participation rather than leaving it open-ended
Preparing backup options in case of technology issues
Providing support and feedback to help students adjust to this learning style
Being flexible and recognizing that not all students will engage the same way
Overall, I now see active learning as a shared responsibility between instructor and student. When both are engaged and supported, it leads to deeper understanding and more meaningful learning experiences.
active learning can be an effective tool.
The students will retain the information better when they aren't force fed.
there are positive and negatives of active learning but when utilized correctly the student has a true understanding of the subject vs the ability to regurgitate the information
It is important for instructors to have flexibility in their teaching style. Setting expectations for quality of work can help emphasize that while I am trying to make learning fun and engaging, it is still work and requires commitment.
Recognizing that online environments can still be active, collaborative classrooms is key to a successful online course. Taking the time to plan a structured lesson with multiple ways for the students to learn and show their learning is important for everyone, the teacher and the students.
Proper instruction in active learning techniques prepares instructors for success.
Active learning has a potential to be inequitable
Active learning will require more effort from the instructor but is well worth it because ultimately, the learning is the student's reward and responsibility. There will be technological challenges in an online active learning environment, so it is imperative to have easily accessible resources available to the students and instructors to manage these challenges.
Comment on Catherine Holtman's post: Comment on Shahid Hussain's post: I agree with your statement that there is a significant initial time investment for the instructor to adapt prior material that was used in the traditional classroom to incorporate into the online experience. For this to work well for all involved, I believe that the instructor should receive an incentive and/or be appropriately compensated for their time.
There might be disruptions with the technology being used and it's always good to have a "Plan b."
The instructor must ensure that the technology is working prior to class as technology can add to the students' frustration if it not working on the instructor's part or the student. Using active learning the students will take the initiative in their learning.
I've learned that using active learning techniques in online classrooms can create internal and external barriers that limit successful implementation, such as instructors' difficulties in using active learning techniques, online students' misconceptions about active learning environment, organizational behaviors or access to available technology. Because this module summarizes these challenges, addresses them in detail, and outlines the key strategies for overcoming them, I plan to use it as a guide when teaching my online courses.
I learned that active learning can be limited by misconceptions, especially the belief that instructors lose control or that students may not be ready to take responsibility for learning. I plan to apply this by acting more intentionally as a facilitator, using structured activities that guide students while still encouraging independence and active participation.
Online students may sometimes have attitude problems with active learning as discussed in this module. I do think that critical thinking skills do contribute to these "problems" and that communication with the students can help them be successful with embracing the active learning model of education.
Comment on Jennifer Sainval's post: Agreed, when teaching online, having a backup plan is wise if technology fails
Active learning is a team effort. Students are responsible and accountable however the teacher's role is a facilitator and sharing knowledge and it's applications while supporting critical thinking and creativity.
Active learning is primarily the responsibility of the student; however, the instructor plays a crucial role in facilitating and encouraging students to perform at their best. While students must take ownership of their engagement, effort, and participation; instructors are responsible for creating a supportive learning environment, designing meaningful activities, and providing constructive feedback. When instructors actively guide, motivate, and challenge students, they help foster curiosity, critical thinking, and deeper understanding. Therefore, successful active learning is a shared partnership between instructors and students, where both contribute to achieving effective educational outcomes.
active learning should mean that students are engaged, but there also should be a clear expectation and understanding from students that they need to put in the work to learn it so it is reinforced, just because we make it comprehensible, does not mean it is stuck in their head for tests and application.
