Active Learning
Introduction
At Manchester Met we encourage an ‘Active Learning’ approach to the planning and design of teaching. Active Learning is an umbrella term which implies a student-centred approach, with learners ‘actively’ involved in interesting tasks, often with their peers. Fundamentally, the process allows learners to develop their own learning through meaningful activities whilst taking ownership of that process. By engaging actively with the learning opportunities we present, learners can explore and apply what they have learnt to promote ‘deeper’ learning.
Whilst Active Learning approaches are more commonly applied to the design of teaching activities, they can also influence the design and planning of assessment. For example, through the adoption of group assessment or peer assessment.
See below for some practical ideas, guidance and further resources on engaging your students in Active Learning.
Videos to Get you Started with Active Learning
Active Learning Activities
Active Learning Activities
This resource describes a set of activities that can be used in either an online or a face-to-face teaching context. They include a short description of the activity and some notes to help you start to think about how to use them in a classroom.10% Braver Teaching
In November 2022, UTA colleagues hosted a workshop entitled 10% Braver Teaching. Inspired by Sir Ken Robinson’s practice, this session explored the interconnections of creativity, active learning and wellbeing. A recent Man Met graduate, Kalon Smith, was commissioned to create an animation that captured the activities and reflections from the session. Please take the time to watch the video and reflect on your own practice and wellbeing.
More information about LEED and UTA workshops can be found on our workshops intranet page.
Further resources
100 Ideas for Active Learning is a practical handbook to inspire innovative educational experiences. It is for educators and curriculum designers who wish to apply active learning tools and strategies in their own teaching and learning contexts.
52 Engaging Toolkit Cards for Enhancing Student Engagement
A toolkit for Advance HE members to support and develop teaching practice and enhance student engagement.
Active Learning in Higher Education Journal
Active Learning in Higher Education is an international, refereed publication for all those who teach and support learning in higher education (HE) and those who undertake or use research into effective learning, teaching and assessment in universities and colleges.
Active Learning Special Interest Group
The AL SIG will provide a platform for sharing practice across, primary, post primary, further and higher education sectors to learn what has worked and most importantly what hasn’t to give our staff and students the confidence and expertise to use apps appropriately, effectively and to also build their digital capabilities.
The TREC Approach to Active Learning
The TREC model was made to create a stimulating and active approach that realistically acknowledged and addressed the potential for learners to disengage or simply become passive recipients of knowledge during sessions.
Active Learning Contact
Active Learning contact
If you have any questions about the content on this page, please contact Dr Sophie Bessant. Click on the profile card for more details.