Active Learning: A Guide for Educators - PDF

‫بسم هللا الرحمن الرحيم‬  STEM STEM stands for science, technology, engineering and mathematics and refers to any subjects that fall under these four disciplines. Because these things are never straightforward, there are also dozens of alternative versions of STEM (including STEAM, S...

‫بسم هللا الرحمن الرحيم‬  STEM STEM stands for science, technology, engineering and mathematics and refers to any subjects that fall under these four disciplines. Because these things are never straightforward, there are also dozens of alternative versions of STEM (including STEAM, STREAM and METALS) but STEM is by far the most widely-used. STEM is an educational curriculum that combines science, technology, engineering, and math. It is meant to be a comprehensive approach; instead of teaching each subject separately, educators aim to incorporate some or all elements of STEM into each project.  The acronym originates from discussions about the lack of qualified graduates to work in high-tech jobs in the US. Since its creation, governments and universities around the world have made attracting students to STEM courses a priority, in order to address this shortfall. In some cases, it’s also easier to immigrate to another country if you studied a STEM subject at degree level and are looking for work in that field.  Knowing & Learning Knowing Done in full awareness or consciousness. Learning The acquisition of knowledge or skills through experience, study, or by being taught. Learning is more important than knowing Learning and knowing are two completely different things. Learning comes with experience and is associated with taking risks. Knowing is more about prior knowledge/gut feel, or perhaps the result of being “told” that a certain fact is true, without questioning. It is the converse of learning, and often not based on fact.  Practice and memorization Practice and memorization are entirely different. Practice– the actual application or use of an idea, belief, or method, as opposed to theories relating to it. Active learning Active learning is an approach to instruction that involves actively engaging students with the course material through discussions, problem solving, case studies, role plays and other methods. Active learning is any approach to instruction in which all students are asked to engage in the learning process. Active learning stands in contrast to "traditional" modes of instruction in which students are passive recipients of knowledge from an expert. Active learning refers to a broad range of teaching strategies which engage students as active participants in their learning during class time with their instructor. Typically, these strategies involve some amount of students working together during class, but may also involve individual work and/or reflection. These teaching approaches range from short, simple activities like problem solving and paired discussions, to longer, involved activities or pedagogical frameworks like case studies, role plays, and structured team-based learning.  Active learning approaches place a greater degree of responsibility on the learner than passive approaches such as lectures, but instructor guidance is still crucial in the active learning classroom. Active learning activities may range in length from a couple of minutes to whole class sessions or may take place over multiple class sessions. ANY QUESTIONS? Thank You