Active Learning

Active learning has been defined as any instructional method that engages students in the learning experience.  It is often contrasted with traditional passive lecture.  The resources below will help get you started with active learning in your classroom, whether it is online or face to face.

Online Resources

CDLI Blended Flow Toolkit

CDLI Blended Flow Toolkit

These interactive tools aid faculty in planning a blend of active learning elements aimed at varied learning objectives.  

Cross Academy

Cross Academy

The Cross Academy hosts a collection of video examples of active learning techniques.

MIT Open Courseware Active Learning Series

MIT Open Courseware Active Learning Series

Curated playlist of YouTube videos on active learning.

Stanford Teaching Commons - Promoting Active Learning

Stanford Teaching Commons - Promoting Active Learning

Introduction to active learning from the Teaching Commons

Research

Selected Research

Freeman, S., Eddy, S. L., McDonough, M., Smith, M. K., Okoroafor, N., Jordt, H., & Wenderoth, M. P. (2014). Active learning increases student performance in science, engineering, and mathematics. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, 111(23), 8410–8415. https://doi.org/10.1073/pnas.1319030111

Freeman, Scott, Eddy, S. L., McDonough, M., Smith, M. K., Okoroafor, N., Jordt, H., & Wenderoth, M. P. (2014). Active learning increases student performance in science, engineering, and mathematics. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, 111(23), 8410–8415.

Knight, J. K., & Wood, W. B. (2005). Teaching More by Lecturing Less. Cell Biology Education, 4(4), 298–310. https://doi.org/10.1187/05-06-0082

Prince, M. (2004a). Does active learning work? A review of the research. Journal of Engineering Education, 93(3), 223–231.

Prince, M. (2004b). Does Active Learning Work? A Review of the Research. Journal of Engineering Education, 93(3), 223–231. https://doi.org/10.1002/j.2168-9830.2004.tb00809.x

R.M. Harden, J. C. (2000). AMEE Guide No 20: The good teacher is more than a lecturer - the twelve roles of the teacher. Medical Teacher, 22(4), 334–347. https://doi.org/10.1080/014215900409429