Center for Teaching and Learning and Professional Development

Active Learning Strategies:

Active learning strategies are teaching methods that involve students in the learning process by encouraging them to think, discuss, investigate, and create. These strategies aim to move beyond passive learning, where students are simply receiving information, and towards a more active and engaging learning experience.


Here's a more detailed look at active learning strategies:

  • Think-Pair-Share:
    This strategy involves students first individually reflecting on a question, then discussing their thoughts with a partner, and finally sharing their ideas with the larger group.
  • Case Studies:
    Students analyze real-world examples or scenarios to apply concepts and develop critical thinking skills.
  • Role-Play:
    Students act out different roles or situations to understand different perspectives and problem-solve collaboratively.
  • Peer Teaching:
    Students teach each other, reinforcing their understanding of the material and building confidence in their knowledge.
  • Debates and Discussions:
    Students engage in structured debates or discussions to analyze different viewpoints and develop communication skills.
  • Problem-Based Learning:
    Students tackle real-world problems, requiring them to research, analyze, and develop solutions.
  • Flipped Classroom:
    Students engage with course material independently outside of class, freeing up class time for active learning activities like discussions and problem-solving.
  • Jigsaw Discussions:
    Students are divided into groups and each group member becomes an expert on a specific topic, then they share their expertise with the rest of the group.
  • Three-Step Interviews:
    Students take turns acting as interviewer, interviewee, and observer, promoting reflection and active participation.
  • Experiential Learning:
    Students learn through hands-on activities and experiences, like field trips or service learning projects.
  • Gamification:
    Incorporating game elements like points, badges, and leaderboards to make learning more engaging and motivating.
  • Simulations:
    Using virtual or physical simulations to create realistic scenarios and allow students to practice skills.

Benefits of Active Learning:

  • Increased engagement and motivation:
    Active learning can make learning more interesting and relevant to students.
  • Improved retention:
    Actively processing information helps students retain it better.
  • Development of critical thinking and problem-solving skills:
    Active learning activities encourage students to analyze information and develop solutions.
  • Enhanced collaboration and communication skills:
    Working together on activities can improve students' ability to collaborate and communicate effectively.


In essence, active learning strategies aim to create a dynamic and interactive learning environment where students are actively involved in constructing their own knowledge and developing essential skills.


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