One of the biggest challenges in education is engaging students and helping them develop the tools they need for future success in their lives and careers. Traditional teaching methods, such as lectures, do not lend themselves well to skill development.
Successful professionals need to be accountable to themselves and their community. They need to think critically, work collaboratively, and act boldly with integrity. They need to be confident and enthusiastic. They need to be self-directed and life-long learners.
A lecture feeds information to a passive learner who is likely to be engaged for, at most, the first ten minutes. It might be a good tool for providing a template to study for a multiple choice test, but it does nothing to help students build confidence or develop skills.
Dr. Maria Montessori, an Italian physician, founded a different type of teaching geared towards self-paced and self-directed active learning in early childhood. Many of her methods translate well to adult education as well.
Working independently or in small groups towards specific goals and objectives forces students to engage on a deeper level, practice critical thinking skills, and - in group work - collaborate with peers
. Engagement in active learning builds confidence, crystalizes concepts, and promotes passionate inquiry.
So how do you turn a lecture into an active learning session? Here are 10 steps:
Have a clear set of goals and objectives
Provide background information when needed, or build on previously presented material
Make sure the activity will be meaningful for students
Make sure instructions are clear and comprehensive
Block off sufficient time for students to complete the activity
If your activity requires actors or other participants, make sure that you have the participants and the budget needed
Ensure sufficient faculty support is available to answer student questions and provide guidance
Have all needed supplies ready at the start of the activity
Schedule a debrief session to help students process the learning
Review what went well and what didn’t and make any needed revisions for next time
The best active learning sessions take students out of their comfort zone, are enjoyable even if a little uncomfortable, and allow students to recognize their own growth and learning.
If you would like help with turning one lecture into an active learning session email me at innovationsineducate@gmail.com
Donna DeGracia
Co-Founder
Innovations in Education
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