Active Learning in Career Based Institutions
I've personally found that, as touched upon in the course material, active learning methods are absolutely critical in teaching students in career based institutions. As not only a graduate from but now an instructor in a career based institution, I know first-hand how being involved as an instructor greatly benefits students. When working with specific equipment and software, giving students hands-on time and, especially with large class sizes, dividing classes into groups can greatly increase their knowledge and retention. In addition, allowing students who are comfortable with being in front of groups to assist in a lecture or demonstration not only enhances their knowledge of the material but also helps to increase attention from the rest of class. The key here is for students to get hands-on experience and engage in exercises that encourage them to develop what they have been learning.
Many of my students say the reason they chose a technical school was for the hands on. Something I need to work on for keeping it active learning is to allow them to make mistakes.
I tend to want to be very efficient and tell them exactly what to do. What works best and what problems they may run into and how/why to fix. What I should do for active learning is tell them the basics. Let them try it. Let them run into problems. Let them try to problem solve. Offer help. Regroup and go over obstacles and solutions with the class.
