by Jennifer Shipon

Created on: June 29, 2008   Last Updated: June 30, 2008

While passive learning undoubtedly works just fine for some types of college students, studies have shown that anyone, despite their preferred method of informational intake, remembers 40% more of what they learn if the material is taught actively. That's right; students who are subjected to a passive educational environment recall a mere 10% of everything they're supposedly "learning." That's an unacceptable score on a test, and it means that students have to relearn 90% of the material on their own time - time that is precious, and often unavailable.

The Problem: Torture Via Lecture

Some teachers in the higher education sphere stick to the old, familiar way of teaching they grew up with - eternal lecturing to a sea of blank-faced, droopy-eyed students who can barely keep their heads up, let alone focus on and retain the crucial information being imparted to them. Sure, teachers have complete control of the classroom this way, and may feel they get to disseminate more information to their students in a lesser amount of time, but that's because no one else has a chance to get a word in edgewise. There is no interactive learning going on whatsoever. Studies have also shown that students learn more effectively when all of their five senses are engaged, not just their sight and hearing. Teachers should make sure the learning environment in their classrooms is not only active, but interactive, creative, and interesting.

The Solution: Revamping Teaching Style

There are plenty of ways to avoid the age-old lecture of death. Teachers can assign solo or group assignments or presentations, incorporate multimedia (videos, CDs, etc.) into classroom time and homework. The Internet alone provides a huge variety of options for teachers to actively stimulate students. The array of possibilities is practically endless.

Another Option: Recharging Learning Style

It's not just up to the teacher to promote active learning, however - the student has a large part in shaping his or her optimal learning style as well. If a teacher uses endless nonstop lectures and Powerpoint slideshows day after day, you can insert your own active learning into the mix, and get the best of both worlds. Find all sorts of multimedia resources on the Internet. Develop study groups with friends in your classes. If a teacher already teaches in an active and creative fashion, there is always room to combine your ideas with your instructor's to create an even more engaging learning experience. How, you ask? It's easy. Come up with mnemonics, consider practical real-life applications of the knowledge you're learning, ask tons of questions in class, and anything else you can think of that engages every part of your brain and body - not just your eyes and notebook paper.

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