Classroom Learning Activities

CSE599IT November 2004

I. Lecturing

• Is lecturing dead?

II. Active Learning. Broad definition: everything except lecturing

A. Dimensions

Whole-class activities vs. Small-group activities

Large-enrollment classes vs. small-enrollment classes

Types of activities

• Discussion: exploratory; pro-con; debate; topic elaboration; brainstorming
• Problem-solving
• Role-playing and drama
• other...

B. Activity management

• Forming groups
• Defining the activity
• Initiating and monitoring/facilitating
• Following up

C. Typical problems

• Student perceptions
• Student participation
• Internal group dynamics
• Use of time
• Physical facilities