Active and Collaborative LearningWhile it may be tempting (and relatively easy) to design and conduct our classes around a lecture, where we, as the faculty experts, tell and explain information, a great deal of research indicates that students often learn best when they are more actively engaged in the learning process. The University of Alabama encourages faculty to employ active and collaborative learning methods whenever possible and appropriate in the learning environment. The definition of active learning is rather interesting, since most definitions describe what it is not. It is not passive. Meyers and Jones state that “active learning is usually understood to stand in contrast to traditional classroom styles where teachers do most of the work and students remain passive.” They provide some very useful guidance when they suggest that “active learning provides opportunities for students to talk and listen, read, write, and reflect as they approach course content through problem-solving exercises, Informal small groups, simulations, case studies, role playing and other activities – all of which require students to apply what they are learning.” The definition of collaborative learning centers around the concept of students working together in ways that promote learning. Smith and MacGregor identify collaborative learning as “an umbrella term for a variety of educational approaches involving joint intellectual effort by students or students and teachers together; usually groups of two or more students mutually search for understanding, meaning or solutions or create a product.” Examples of Active and Collaborative Learning Methods References |
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