Experimental active classrooms change traditional learning
Despite initial skepticism about the effectiveness of the the newly built active learning classrooms in Dow Hall, students like Sara Henry have said courses in the room are more engaging than ever before.
"In this (active learning) classroom, we are able to interact with the teacher and get a more up-close look at the display, which is easier for those that have horrible eyesight like me," the Lake Orion senior said.
In February, the Central Michigan University Board of Trustees allocated $1.5 million in university funding from the College of Science and Technology, the Academic Division Fund and the University Reserve Fund.
Active learning classrooms are built around a central lecture podium and integrates technology including USB connections in the desks and display monitors around the classrooms.
The idea is to facilitate a more interactive learning environment and cultivate more interactions between instructors and students.
Montrose freshman James Carter said he is taking physical geography in one of the labs and has enjoyed the technology in the classroom.
Kolbar Alan Jackson, professor in the physics department, said teaching in active learning classrooms has presented challenges for him. He said it is difficult to view all his students at the same time.
"The room is not conducive to traditional lecturing, but it's not designed for that," Jackson said.
Despite the challenges, Jackson said the classrooms are great for group activities and having students talk with one another about concepts in class is beneficial.
"It's an awesome arrangement for students to work together," Jackson said.
Lindsey Rogers, a Madison Heights freshman, said she has enjoyed taking physical geography in the new classroom.
"It's a lot more interactive than other classes and the lectures aren't as boring," Rogers said.
A 2013 study done by the National Journal of Physiology, Pharmacy and Pharmacology showed that first year medical students who took classes that used active learning strategies understood concepts, had greater interest in the subject material and made better interactions with peers.
Henry said that the active learning classrooms have a lot of different advantages and similar types of classrooms should be expanded to different areas on campus.
"We are able to turn on a microphone at our own table that way we can be heard throughout the classroom, which helps the quiet people in the classroom," Henry said. "We have a button on the monitor control at each lab table that allows us to press a button to raise our hand that way we don't have to hold our hands up for what seems like forever."
