Keeping Students Engaged in Class

In this workshop, we will briefly consider a number of active learning structures that may be implemented to keep class periods more varied and engaging for students. Live examples of some of these methods will be performed. Suggestions and general guidelines for these activities will also be shared. Topics include in-class teams, use of clickers, minute papers, and thinking aloud problem-solving.

Counts towards:

• (S) Striving for Excellence
• (A) Advanced Teaching Scholar

At the end of this workshop, participants will

• Take part in some easy-to-implement active learning activities.
• Be aware of the use of technology in active learning (for example, how clickers may be used).
• Be able to apply ideas rooted in active learning in the classroom.
• Be aware of further resources for engaging students in the classroom.

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Johnson, D.W., Johnson, R.T., and Smith, K.A. Active Learning:
Cooperation in the College Classroom. Edina, MN: Interaction Book Co., 1998.

Educause Learning Initiative. “Seven Things You Should Know About Clickers.” <http://net.educause.edu/ir/library/pdf/ELI7002.pdf>.

Felder, R.M. “Student-Centered Teaching and Learning.”
<http://www4.ncsu.edu/unity/lockers/users/f/felder/public/Student-Centered.html>.