Active Learning Activities

Group Work Project Contracting

For instructors planning student group work projects over many weeks or months.

Put Your Theory on Trial

Scaffolded debate that explores the nuances of a belief that the teacher has introduced.

Running on Water: Activating Prior Knowledge of Static Equilibrium

Students watch, discuss, then analyze the veracity of a video in which hydrophobic shoes allow people to run on water.

More Than One Way to Cook an Egg: Exploring Gardner’s Theory of Multiple Intelligences

Teams explore Gardner's Theory, present one component, summarize presentation content, and conduct a self-assessment.

Mechanics in Motion: Iterative GIF Creation

In groups, students create GIFs to demonstrate and explain how mechanic principles apply in real-life scenarios.

Nature of Science Ice-Breaker

A first class ice-breaker activity introducing the nature of science.

Can I Use the Internet?

Low Stakes Debate

Peer Review, Assessment & Feedback

Gender Socialization throughout the Life Course

Students complete a grid that illustrates different life periods that reinforce gender narratives.

Solving World Issues One Smartphone at a Time

Schools of Thought in Psychology

Building Effective Teams

Let’s Role Play the French Revolution!

If You’re Not Part of the Solution You’re Part of the Precipitate

Action-Learning Sets

Understanding Terminology Using Jigsaw

Forget the Math! Draw Pictures to Learn the Wave Theory of Light

Jigsaw Geography Presentation

Ctrl + Alt + Del: PTSD and Neuroplasticity

Teacher for a Day: Defining a Definition

Forces Scavenger Hunt

Elemental Superhero

Explosives Detective