How can you use active learning techniques to engage your students online?

1 What is active learning?

Active learning is based on the idea that students learn best when they are actively involved in constructing their own knowledge and skills, rather than passively receiving information from the instructor or the course materials. Active learning can take many forms, such as discussions, problem-solving, case studies, simulations, and self-assessment. Active learning can foster critical thinking, collaboration, communication, and creativity among students, and also increase their satisfaction and achievement.

2 Why use active learning online?

Online courses can pose some challenges for both instructors and students, such as limited social presence, reduced feedback, and increased cognitive load. Active learning can help overcome these challenges by creating opportunities for students to interact with the instructor, the content, and each other, and by making the learning more relevant, authentic, and fun. Active learning can also help students develop self-regulation and metacognition skills, which are essential for online learning success.

4 How to facilitate active learning online

To facilitate active learning activities online, adopt a learner-centered approach that shifts your role from a lecturer to a facilitator, guide, and coach. Provide clear instructions, expectations, and support for your students before, during, and after the activities. Monitor your students' progress, participation, and performance, and intervene when necessary to address any issues or difficulties. Create a positive and inclusive online learning community that encourages your students to share their ideas, opinions, and experiences.

5 How to evaluate active learning online

To evaluate the effectiveness of your active learning activities online, collect and analyze data from multiple sources and perspectives. You can use both quantitative and qualitative methods, such as surveys, quizzes, tests, assignments, portfolios, and reflections. You can also solicit feedback from your students, peers, and experts on the strengths and weaknesses of your active learning design and facilitation. You can use the results of your evaluation to improve your online teaching practice and enhance your students' online learning experience.

6 How to get started with active learning online

If you want to get started with active learning online, you don't have to reinvent the wheel or overhaul your entire course. You can start small and simple by adding one or two active learning activities to your existing online course or module. You can also adapt some of the active learning techniques that you use in your face-to-face classes to the online environment, such as think-pair-share, jigsaw, or role-play. You can also explore some of the online tools and resources that can support your active learning implementation, such as discussion forums, blogs, podcasts, videos, and quizzes.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?