Active Learning Blog

The stereotypical classroom, where the instructor drones on in the front and students slump bored in their seats, is not a place where learning takes place. In order for students to learn, they must be engaged in what they are doing, which sparks further curiosity and greater achievement. For today's educational leaders who want to encourage greater curiosity and learning, the key is encouraging greater engagement.

For educators looking to increase student engagement and performance, flipping the classroom holds great promise. With an educational model that works for more learning styles, the flipped classroom may be the classroom of the future. Understanding this model and the potential educational gains will help the modern educators make wise decisions.

Device distraction. It’s everywhere.

Undeniably, research on the benefits of using student response systems has shown that their strategic use supports active learning approaches in a wide variety of learning environments. The use of LectureTools and its various features facilitates anonymous student answers and enhanced communication with the professor. The types of questions an educator can use to engage students in classroom activities is not only consistent with the notion of this support, it also enhances and provides many more unique opportunities for student learning. In addition to the factors that contribute to the high participation rates (~90-99% per class basis) in my classroom, low-stakes participation and the low cost associated with gaining access to LectureTools through institutional support were are also deemed highly important in terms of engagement in my classroom.