Active learning for large classes

Teaching large classes comes with its own unique set of challenges compared to teaching small classes. Large classes are often more impersonal and based on lectures and fixed assignments meaning interaction is limited and content gets “covered”. But it doesn’t have to be that way, large classes also present opportunities to break away from the sage on the stage to learning that’s involved based on the diversity of students and the experiences they bring to class.

In this workshop we will look at basic techniques for classroom management along with strategies for promoting engagement through large group active learning. Using a range of different strategies such debates, news story spotlights, think-aloud pair problem solving, fishbowl, 1-minute paper and online forums instructors can elicit a rich pool of differences that diminishes the routine of passive learning while creating the basis of a social and connected community.

Please note that this workshop will involve group work and active learning as we spend time reflecting on course planning by examining examples of large classes shared by participants along with solutions and strategies where students do the work, so the learner becomes the teacher.  

Audeince: Concordia faculty