Adopting Active Learning Styles in the Classroom

Active learning styles are increasingly proving to be the best methods for teaching and learning any subject. Both research and anecdotal evidence have shown that incorporating active learning styles in the classroom has dramatically increased student participation and performance in the courses taught. It has been observed that students learn best when they are provided opportunities in the classroom to actively engage with the course material and participate actively in the learning process.

Traditional teaching methods involve a one way communication where student act as passive receptors into which the teacher deposits information and concepts which they may or may not understand. Such a system rewards those who can reflect the course content during assessment. It puts students with good short term memories and reading skills at an advantage. The problem with passive learning is that it is very easy for the students to get distracted and disconnect from the one way communication taking place in the class.

In contrast active learning provides opportunities for students to actively and meaningfully listen and talk, read write and reflect about the content. concerns, ideas and issues related to the course being taught. The students assume a more interactive relationship with course subject matter which encourages them to contribute rather than simply receive knowledge or information. Here teachers act as facilitators rather than dictators of what and how the students learn. This way students are able to learn more course material, retain the important information for longer periods and enjoy the classroom teaching more.