Active or transformative learning

Transformative learning (which is an umbrella term for more engaged or active learning) can occur in many ways.

The following definitions of the five categories of transformative learning are taken from Slavich and Zimbardo ( George M Slavich and Philip G Zimbardo, 'Transformational Teaching: Theoretical Underpinnings, Basic Principles, and Core Methods' (2012) 24 Educational Psychology Review 569. ) 

 

a) Active learning: Students read, write, discuss, and engage in problem solving in order to analyse, synthesise, and evaluate information.

b) Student-centred learning:  Teaching is based on students' needs, abilities, interests and learning styles.

c) Collaborative learning: Students learn best when they tackle problems and questions with peers.

d) Experiential learning: Learning by  directly engaging in, and reflecting  on, personal and practical experiences outside the classroom.

e) Problem-based learning: Learning by tackling complex, multifaceted problems in small groups while provided with scaffolding, modelling experiences and opportunities for self-directed learning. 

 

Much of the material you need to cover in tutorials will be set by Course Director, but HOW you deliver it is up to you. Giving some thought to the use of different group structures for discussion is one way to facilitate engaged and transformative learning.  Click Next for some ideas.