Modifying classroom activities to active learning requires a shift in the instructor. The instructor becomes a facilitator of the learning activities. Active learning activities require planning and consideration of the space, tools, number of students, and ways to engage students in the content.
Clear and direct communication of expectations, deadlines, and objectives is the most effective way to discern the initial level of participation, thus giving a fairly accurate gauge of each student's learning and participation style.
One constant is the inclusion of assessments
Set Expectations, explain the course and Outcomes expected, adapt materials and introduce them throughout the course, keep the students engaged.
The best takeaway" “learning is not so much an additive process, with new learning simply piling up on top of existing knowledge, as it is an active, dynamic process in which the connections are constantly changing and the structure reformatted.”
I learned that taking three to five strategies and incorporate them into a course may help, and organizing the course around learning objectives may be not enough.
Encourage them to think is extremely important!
To help students complete their assignments successfully, they need to understand the rules and expectations. It's also important that they know how they're doing in the class. That’s why setting deadlines throughout the course is important.
The rubric is such a key component to provide students with clear definition of the expectations of the course work/grading. Also, utilizing shorter and varied teachings help to keep students more engaged.
Key elements of active learning are reading, reflective writing, displaying, and doing. I found it interesting that having rubrics eliminates frustration on both sides-teacher and student.
Rubrics are particularly useful in Active learning environments where projects and papers are used for assessment. The use of rubrics gives the students information about what is expected in the assignment. However, I have found that rubrics encourage students to "perform" at a minimum, instead of excelling to their highest potential. I believe it is good to put an evaluation category in the rubric at the top end of the scale that says "the student has exceeded or gone beyond what is expected and required." This encourages students to be creative and think beyond the minimum to get a good grade and to excel.
I learned that constant, short updates and points of communication can set up students for success.
I've learned that we live in a digital age and have to accommodate learners. By doing active learning, like flipped class, would encourage students to be more critical thinkers and also encourage them to find a creative side.
The course inspires me to learn more about technology tools students are comfortable using.
Rubrics can alleviate assessment headaches for the instructor and aggravation, disillusionment and frustration on the part of the students. Rubrics also assist in the student's understanding of course expectations and assessments.
Utilizing rubrics ensures that both the student and the instructor are clear on expectations for the course and any questions can be directed back to the rubric. Students can complete the course in a better way when the expectations are communicated fully and clearly. Communication in learning is just as important as any other part of life.
This lesson has given me a clearer aspect on how to convert traditional learners into modern learners. I've come to realize that majority of the students are used to having the answers given to them without doing much leg work so by engaging them with online activities such as Quizlet or Kahoot, not only are they actively learning, they're engaging with their fellow classmates and more open to class discussions, participation and retain the information they're learning.
Modifying traditional classroom activities involves adapting traditional teaching methods to enhance student engagement and learning outcomes. This can include incorporating technology, promoting active learning, and differentiating instruction to cater to diverse learning styles.
I am adding active learning activities to my current and future courses that align with my topics and requirements for the student's enhancement. The use of rubrics will give guidance in my grading.
I learned that implementing active learning in online courses requires intentional planning, clear communication, and a mindset shift from instructor-led teaching to student-centered facilitation. It also involves addressing both instructor and student resistance, setting clear expectations, and scaffolding the learning experience. I plan to apply this by gradually integrating 3–5 active learning strategies aligned with course objectives, using clear rubrics, consistent communication, and upfront guidance to help students understand the value and structure of active learning from day one.
To move away from traditional lecturing and towards a flipped classroom, develop 3-5 active learning strategies to be used during the course, including "low-risk" activities that allow students to get used to how active learning works. Feedback throughout the course is also important to let students know how they are doing and to help motivate them.
With my new class that I am taking I will provide clear and concise explanations for what active learning is and the expectations for the course.
