Module 4 EDU 776: Active Learning
I have not had a chance to really give a name to some of the activities that good teachers do regularly, but active learning seems to describe activities that teachers should be engaging in. For this particular example, I chose the "A Year in Six Words" which asks students to reflect on their school year in 6 words and then was shared with the community via social media. Check out my Jamboard regarding this activity or reference the image below.
This activity ties into active learning because it puts student voice in the center and the teacher as merely a facilitator. Learning is mindful and it allows students to access their learning and connect it back to their feelings and lives. This particular example was done at the elementary school level, but can easily be modified for high school. This can be used for generating a response about a current event or to help summarize complex ideas into smaller chunks. I was also interested in the feedback blog as well, teaching students how to give proper feedback to one another instead of generic responses would be great.
Hi Kassandra,
ReplyDeleteWow, the "6 Words on George Floyd" image is very powerful. I think this activity was a great way to create a discussion about this topic. I haven't heard of this activity before, but I like that it can accomplish so much with minimal writing. I would probably use this activity to summarize a concept or get students' perspectives about a topic. The passive vs. active learning photo that you included is so spot on. I love looking around my classroom at students completing projects and discussing with peers. Although I feel some direct instruction is still necessary, I enjoy being a facilitator and empowering my students to take the lead in their own education.
-Kate S.
What a powerful idea for a 6 word summary! Thanks for sharing not only the process that was used, but a picture as well. This is a great example of how an active learning instructional strategy can be used throughout grade levels and subjects with success.
ReplyDelete"Learning is mindful" I think this is the most important aspect of active learning. Today, students have so many gadgets and apps to distract them. So, it is important to focus their attention on the lesson. Active learning is a great tool for this. When students are doing something, they are engaged in the task. As mindfulness teaches us, we cannot focus on two things simultaneously. As a result, our students are focused on the learning task. I think we could improve upon this by starting the class with a simple breathing exercise that helps to clear their mind. The Six Words exercise can be a powerful way for students to practice mindfulness. Listening to our own minds, rather than reacting to outside stimuli, is a great way to quiet the brain.
ReplyDeleteHi! I really enjoyed reading 6 words on George Floyd and thought this was such a great way to allow students to express their thoughts and views on this very difficult topic and loved that it was mapped out in such a safe way for them. I really think this was an awesome example of applying this blog post to everyday life in the classroom especially when it surrounded this difficult current event.
ReplyDeleteHi Kassandra,
ReplyDeleteThe example you shared about "6 Words on George Floyd" is amazing. The topic is incredibly sensitive, so limiting the comments to 6 words allows students to be heard, while avoiding opportunities for long rants. What a great idea! Thanks so much for sharing.