The value of Active Learning

Active learning seeks to engage a greater range of student in effective learning.  Also, it positively affects the attitude of the learners towards themselves and peers in the learning process. 

What is the value of active learning to the Teacher?

Active learning concentrates on the function of teaching.  It helps teachers to select objectives at the correct level of difficulty, therefore meeting the student’s needs.  The teacher encourages the students to be responsible for their own learning.  Active learning brings the students into the organisation, problem solving and thinking processes of the discipline.  This teaching approach also give teachers times to perform the helping functions of listener, instructor and advocate.

What is the value of Active Learning to the Students?

Active learning develops social experiences between students, learners and peers, and between teachers and their students.  This helps to create and develop a sense of community and connectedness within the active learning classroom.

The most significant value is that active learning increases students' retention and understanding of the lessons material.  This occurs because:

Active learning utilizes and builds upon the students' data and knowledge base.

• The active learning process encourages students to experiment with ideas, to develop concepts, and to integrate concepts into more superior systems.
• Tasks to be accomplished become clear.
• Students have an opportunity to offer personal insights and interpretation (developing their own answers).