Active Learning Fundamentals

Active Learning Fundamentals
Presented by Megan Gibson and Anne Spain
Faculty Center for Teaching and Learning • Ferris State University
March 15, 2024
SUMMARY
This video is about active learning - what it is, examples of active learning strategies, and research showing the benefits of active learning, especially for underrepresented student groups. The presenters define active learning, provide examples like Think-Pair-Share and Jigsaw, and summarize studies showing active learning improves exam scores, lowers failure rates, and reduces achievement gaps.
KEY POINTS FROM THE TRANSCRIPT:
• Active learning involves students actively constructing knowledge through higher order thinking activities, sometimes involving meta-cognition. It is supported by constructivist learning theory.
• Active learning activities range from simple (minute papers, think-pair-share) to complex (jigsaw, guided notes).
• Research shows active learning boosts exam scores and lowers failure rates compared to traditional lecturing, especially for underrepresented students.
• Highly structured courses with lots of active learning disproportionately benefit minority and first-generation students by reducing achievement gaps.
• How active learning is implemented matters - it should treat students with dignity and communicate confidence in their abilities, showing interest in their growth.