Empower Your Students: The Art of Active Learning in College
🎧 Listen on Apple Music or Spotify
Welcome to "The Good Teaching Podcast," where we delve into the world of active learning in college education. Join your host, Dr. Toyin Alli, as she explores the transformative impact of active learning on student engagement and academic success.
Understanding Active Learning
Active learning is a student-centered approach that goes beyond traditional lecture-based teaching. By actively involving students in the learning process, educators empower them to take responsibility for their education. The benefits of active learning are immense, leading to increased engagement, better comprehension of course materials, and improved retention.
Dr. Alli’s Journey with Active Learning
Dr. Alli, a seasoned senior lecturer at the University of Georgia, shares her enlightening journey with active learning. From her days as a graduate student to becoming a teaching mentor, she discovered the power of involving students in their own learning. Learn how she transformed her classroom through active learning and witnessed the positive impact it had on her students.
Easy Active Learning Techniques:
Wait Time: Give students time to process and respond to questions, fostering critical thinking and confidence.
Think Pair Share: Encourage collaboration among students as they discuss and share their ideas with each other.
Polling the Class: Use non-verbal cues or polling to gauge student understanding and gather instant feedback.
Muddiest Point: Ask students to identify their most challenging concepts and create a supportive learning environment that nurtures growth and understanding.
Minute Papers: End class 2-5 minutes early to allow students to write a summary of the main takeaways of the day’s lesson.
Implementing Active Learning from Day One
Starting the semester with active learning sets a positive tone for the entire course. In a future episode, we will provide you with practical tips to incorporate active learning activities right from the first day. By setting clear expectations, you'll create a dynamic and engaging learning experience for your students.
Taking Active Learning Beyond the Classroom
Explore the Independent Professor Workshop, hosted by Dr. Alli. Uncover the advantages of independent teaching and how it can extend your impact beyond the university. Learn how to create your own self-hosted learning experiences, share your expertise, and supplement your income.
As we conclude this journey into the world of active learning, remember that you have the power to revolutionize your college teaching. Embrace active learning, and witness the incredible transformation it brings to your classroom. Join the conversation on social media and become a part of the active learning movement!
