INTERACTIVE APPROACH
An iterative approach is one where the content of the discussion, stimulus, or sometimes even the methodology is adapted throughout the research program.
Learning from initial research sessions influences the inputs for the subsequent education processes.
This approach is particularly useful for time-sensitive projects where there isn’t scope for multiple rounds of research.
This is an idea that has been adapted from the validated-learning approach of the lean start-up movement.
Teaching techniques vary, depending on everything from the make-up of the class and instructor personalities to central budgets and strategic plans. Regardless of how it’s done, the many hours spent on lessons, teaching and grading go toward one important goal: supporting student success.
Interactive learning is one method that instructors often integrate into their classrooms in order to capture student attention and increase their understanding of the course material.
What is interactive learning?
Interactive learning is a technique that seeks to get students actively engaged in the learning process, often through the use of technology. This is in contrast to more passive techniques like the traditional lecture.
While the technological part of interactive learning can be intimidating to some, it is important to remember that technology exists to support pedagogy, not the other way around. With that in mind, instructors should evaluate educational technology with an eye toward tools that open up exciting possibilities for their lessons and enhance learning for their students. Anything else should be left by the wayside.
Strategies for interactive learning
There are many ways for instructors to incorporate interactive learning strategies into their classrooms. The following methods – including enhanced lectures, flipped classrooms, peer instruction, and team-based learning – are just a few.
Enhanced lecture
This is a broad category that encompasses a range of interactive learning strategies in the classroom. At its simplest, an enhanced lecture can look very similar to a traditional lecture, only with the support of interactive learning tools that allow instructors to ask students frequent questions throughout.
These tools, including response technology, allow instructors to poll their classes frequently, receive immediate feedback, and even facilitate small group discussions.
Instructors can also quickly evaluate comprehension and modify lessons on-the-fly to allow more time for concepts that students are finding more difficult to understand.
Flipped classroom
The flipped classroom model gives students first exposure to learning before class. Contrary to what many people think, recording lectures for students to watch at home is not the only way to implement flipped learning. The important part is that there is guided learning outside of class – through a video lecture, a reading assignment, or some other method. That guidance can exist as an outline of learning objectives or even interactive homework questions to be completed before class. All of this pre-class work allows for students to focus their in-class time on higher-level cognitive activities and hands-on exercises.
Peer instruction
Collaboration among students is a big part of building an interactive learning environment, and peer instruction is a great way to encourage it. This technique involves instructors lecturing for a short amount of time and, as in enhanced lectures, periodically asking their students questions about the subject matter.
While the students initially answer the questions on their own, they then meet in small groups to discuss the question and answer choices. By the end of the process, students have a better grasp of the correct answer and a more in-depth understanding of the subject of the lesson.
Team-based learning
Team-based learning is a collaborative strategy designed around modules of instruction taught in a three-step cycle: preparation, in-class readiness assurance testing (taken first individually and then as a team), and an application-focused exercise that the team works to complete during class. TBL is an effective way to build a collaborative learning environment, no matter the class size.
Technology is often used to facilitate readiness assurance tests so that everyone can see results quickly.
Interactive learning benefits
While it may take some careful planning and thoughtful integration into lesson plans, interactive learning brings a wide variety of benefits to the classroom.
Engagement
One big benefit of all types of interactive learning is the positive effect on student engagement. Techniques like the ones outlined above tend to sharpen focus and reduce daydreaming. One study showed that 87 percent of students found class more engaging with the addition of response technology in a large lecture hall.
Collaboration
In more passive, lecture-focused learning environments, one or two students typically dominate class discussions. Interactive learning techniques instead allow students to engage with their peers, express their opinions, and be exposed to more diverse points of view. Collaboration also builds social and problem-solving skills, two areas that are valued in school and beyond.
Critical thinking
Most importantly, interactive learning pushes students to stretch their abilities and gives them the tools to achieve deeper learning. By engaging students in the classroom, and making them central to the learning experience, they are better able to more deeply analyse and apply the subject matter while strengthening team-building and interpersonal skills at the same time.
