Active Learning - 8 Strategies That Make a Difference

Active learning in the classroom engage students. Engaged students learn. But what makes an active learning experience?
Examples of active learning activities include:
A class discussion. Discussions can take place with any class size, although it is typically more effective in smaller group settings. This environment allows for the teacher to guide the learning experience. Discussion requires students to think critically on the subject matter and use logic to evaluate their and others' positions. As students are expected to discuss intelligently, a discussion is a good follow-up activity for a unit of work.
A think-pair-share activity (my favourite) is when learners take a minute to think about the activity themselves. The move into a buddy pair with a peer to discuss the matter further. This pair joins with a larger group to share the activity with everyone. It is during this larger discussion that the teacher needs to be involved and should clarify misconceptions. Students need a background in the subject matter to use this strategy. A think-pair-share exercise is useful in situations where learners can identify and relate what they already know to others.
A learning cell is an effective way for a pair of students to study and learn together. A learning cell is a process of learning where two students alternate asking and answering questions on commonly read materials. To start the process one student is designated as the "asker". Once the two students discuss the question, the other student will ask a question and they will alternate accordingly. During this time, the teacher is going around the class from group to group giving feedback and answering questions.
The 3 minute rush is a good way to review materials and provide feedback. Students are given a few minutes to prepare and then on "go" must write everything they know, remember and/or understand about a topic.
A collaborative learning group is a good way to create active engagement from students. Put students in groups of 3-6. They are given a task to work on together. Students (or the teacher) selects a leader and a note-taker to keep them on track with the process.
A student debate is an active way for students to learn as students must take a position and gather information to support their view and explain it to others. These debates not only give the student a chance to participate in a fun activity but it also lets them gain some experience with giving a verbal presentation.
A reaction to a video is also an example of active learning because most students love to watch movies. The video helps the student to understand what they are learning at the time in an alternative presentation mode. After the video is complete divide the students either into groups or pairs so that they may discuss what they learned and write a review or reaction to the movie.
Game are great ways to consolidate skills learned. Games not only help students to review the lesson but enable them to enjoy learning about a topic. Different games such as word puzzles always seem to keep students active and interested.

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