How To Make Active Learning Work For You And Your Students

Active learning is a teaching method in which students are actively engaged in the learning process through activities, rather than passively listening to a teacher’s lecture.

There are many benefits to using active learning in the classroom. When students are actively engaged in the learning process, they are more likely to retain information and be able to apply it to real-world situations. Additionally, active learning can help to develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

However, active learning is not a one-size-fits-all approach. In order for active learning to be effective, it must be used in a way that is appropriate for the content being learned and the students’ needs.

Here are a few tips to help you make active learning work for you and your students:

1. Make sure the activity is well-suited to the content.

Active learning activities should be designed to help students learn the specific content that you are teaching. The activity should be closely aligned with the learning objectives. For example, if you are teaching a lesson on photosynthesis, an active learning activity could involve having students role-play the process of photosynthesis.

2. Make sure the activity is appropriate for the students’ level.

Active learning activities should be appropriate for the students’ age and ability level. If the activity is too difficult, students will become frustrated and may give up. On the other hand, if the activity is too easy, students will become bored and may not see the point in doing it.

3. Make sure the activity is engaging.

In order for active learning to be effective, students must be engaged in the activity. If students are not interested in the activity, they are not likely to learn from it. To make sure your students are engaged, choose activities that are interesting and fun.

4. Make sure the activity is structured.

Active learning activities should have a clear purpose and structure. The activity should be designed in a way that allows students to progress through it at their own pace. For example, if you are having students work on a jigsaw puzzle, make sure the puzzle is not too difficult and that there is a clear goal for the activity.

5. Make sure the activity is scaffolded.

Scaffolding is a technique that can be used to support students as they learn new content. When scaffolding an activity, you provide students with the support they need to be successful. For example, if you are having students solve a problem, you might provide them with a step-by-step guide to help them solve it.

By following these tips, you can make active learning work for you and your students. Active learning is an effective way to help students learn new content and develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills.