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.

Silent Discussion

Conduct a discussion in your class without students ever speaking a word!

Who Are You? A Multidimensional Examination of Self-Concept

Students investigate their self-concept, compare it to a classmate, assess differences between self- and social perception.

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.

Controversy in the Science Classroom: Nature of Science Quiz

Peerwise Assignment: Human Body

Low Stakes Debate

Categorizing for Review

Solving World Issues One Smartphone at a Time

Schools of Thought in Psychology

Projet Specific: Webzine

In-Class Think Pieces: Course Pack

4 Sociological Perspectives: Working with Theoretical Frameworks

Three-Tiered Writing

The Perry Scheme of Intellectual Development

Homophones Talent Show

Reflective Reading on Islam

Students use homework questions to prompt a deeper engagement with the reading material to generate better class discussion.

Putting the “You” in education: Using self-reflections for learning

Having Students Read and Apply Essay Feedback

Forget the Math! Draw pictures to learn the wave theory of light

Holding Your Seat: A Mindfulness Exercise