Seven practical strategies to add active learning to a science lecture

Area of Science:

• STEM Education
• Neuroscience Education

Background:

• Active learning is proven to boost student performance and reduce failure rates.
• It particularly benefits marginalized students in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a simple framework for planning and implementing active learning in educational settings.
• To provide faculty with actionable strategies and evidence-based activities to enhance learning, engagement, and inclusion.

Main Methods:

• A mini-review of existing research on active learning.
• Development of a framework with seven supporting strategies.
• Inclusion of five specific teaching activities and two methods for integrating them into lectures.

Main Results:

• The framework and strategies are supported by foundational research demonstrating improved learning outcomes.
• The strategies have been successfully applied in large biology lectures, including neuroscience topics.
• The methods are adaptable for both large and small class sizes.

Conclusions:

• Implementing active learning strategies can significantly improve student success in STEM.
• The provided framework offers a practical approach for educators to integrate active learning effectively.
• Evidence supports the use of these strategies for enhancing engagement and inclusion across various educational contexts.