What is an Active Learning Space?

An active learning classroom is student-centered and technology rich. The elements of redesigned learning space are wireless bandwidth, numerous display screens, flexible furniture, varied writing surfaces, throwable microphones and abundant power.

Active learning spaces feature round or curved tables with moveable seating that allow students to face each other and thus support small-group work. The tables are often paired with their own whiteboards for brainstorming and diagramming (Baepler, et al., 2016). Some spaces also feature multiple displays, allowing instructors and students to project their work from their laptops around the room, and some include microphones for sound projection so that student voices can be heard. Wifi and power is critical for student laptops and smart phones.

Features:

Flexible Furniture

Flexible furniture permits easy circulation in the environment. Clear sightlines and flat design decrease the instructor-student distance and reduce the traditional hierarchy of front-facing rooms. It promotes a student-centered environment for teaching and learning.

Collaboration

Round tables, typically in 3 groups of 3, encourage small group collaboration. Glass whiteboards are available for each group as they collaborate, problem solve, and present.

Student Voice and Presenting

The throwable microphone is a wireless device that allows students to be heard in larger active learning spaces. In this student-centered classroom environment, it is important for student voices to be heard.

There is a wireless projection system that allows students the ability to project their presentation or document from their laptop or hand-held device.

Locations involved:

View the list of Active Learning classrooms on the ITS Classrooms site