
Active learning is an instructional approach that engages students directly in the learning process through meaningful activities and reflection. This method contrasts with passive learning, where students simply receive information through lectures or readings.
Characteristics of active learning include:
- Student participation in the construction of knowledge
- Emphasis on higher-order thinking skills
- Collaborative learning opportunities
- Real-world problem-solving and application
- Frequent feedback and assessment
Techniques for implementing active learning include:
- Think-pair-share discussions
- Case studies and simulations
- Peer teaching and reciprocal questioning
- Hands-on experiments and projects
- Debate and role-playing activities
Research consistently shows that active learning strategies can lead to improved student outcomes, including better retention of information, enhanced critical thinking skills, and increased engagement in the learning process.