subject: Stimulate Active Learning With Student Response Systems [print this page] The advantages of active learning approaches have been indicated by a variety of modern research. Active learning approaches are often enhanced or even based around new technology such as student response systems. For anyone who doesnt already know active learning is simply a style of learning that allows the learner to attach meaning to a subject matter. This is done by engaging them, which can be a achieved in a variety of different ways. By engaging the students and having them actively take part in the learning process they develop an understanding of the subject matter based on a logic and reasoning, rather than simply call and response.
Although student response systems are not solely responsible for efficient learning, having only been compared to traditional teaching techniques there is no reason to suggest that active learning is exclusive to them. As a result there is no clear indication as to whether it is the student response system or the active learning approach that engages the students. It is most likely that it is a chain reaction, the student response system allows for active learning techniques to be implemented efficiently, which in turn engages the students.
The advantages to active learning approaches are widely acclaimed; this is especially true in higher education. Research indicates that the majority of modern day students tend to be active learners; with this in mind it is fair to say that many lecture courses are simply becoming outdated and no longer provide the necessary stimulation to engage their students.
Amongst the seven principles of good practice in higher education, promoting active learning is ranked quite highly, and theres no doubt that technology such as student response systems provides many opportunities for techniques to engage students. Furthermore these systems also provide the educator with some useful information about their class; student response systems allow them to:
-Effectively gauge the level of understanding of the material being covered
-Actively engage all of the students throughout the whole of the lesson period
-Supply all the students with prompt feedback
Active learning promotes a more solid, integrated, and useful understanding of the concepts through practical application. By adding meaning to the material the chances of it being committed to the long-term memory are increased significantly. Student response systems promote greater student engagement, increased student interest, and heightened interactivity and discussion.
Furthermore, they allow the whole class to try answering any questions, rather than one student. And for any students that are shy there is no risk of public humiliation if they answer incorrectly, as it is all done anonymously. This means that the teacher can discreetly identify who is struggling with the material.
