ERIC Number: EJ1467586
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2025-Mar
Pages: 21
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-8756-3894
EISSN: EISSN-1559-7075
Available Date: 2025-01-31
Designing an Active Learning Space
Dabae Lee1; Jozenia T. Colorado-Resa2; Yeol Huh1
TechTrends: Linking Research and Practice to Improve Learning, v69 n2 p310-330 2025
This developmental study explores the process and outcomes of creating an active learning classroom within a higher education setting. To support student success, institutions have increasingly redesigned their learning spaces to promote active learning. Early initiatives often aimed to facilitate collaborative learning and reduce reliance on traditional lectures. However, emerging research suggests that effective active learning environments should integrate both collaborative activities and instructor-led discussions. An instructional design and technology program at a small midwestern university was given the opportunity to completely redesign its learning space. Guided by the Pedagogy, Space, and Technology framework and existing research, the team conducted a systematic needs assessment, design, and development process. Design principles were formulated to address pedagogical, spatial, and technological considerations, ensuring the classroom supported a range of activities including lectures, small group work, and classwide discussions. Key design decisions and the resulting renovated space are detailed, highlighting the integration of centralized focal points for lectures and discussions alongside flexible workspace for group and individual activities. The study contributes to ongoing discussions on innovative learning spaces and offers practical guidance for educators seeking to enhance active learning environments.
Descriptors: Higher Education, Active Learning, Classroom Environment, Classroom Design, Classroom Research, Design Requirements, Educational Facilities Planning, Classrooms, Instructional Design
Springer. Available from: Springer Nature. One New York Plaza, Suite 4600, New York, NY 10004. Tel: 800-777-4643; Tel: 212-460-1500; Fax: 212-460-1700; e-mail: customerservice@springernature.com; Web site: https://link.springer.com/
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research; Tests/Questionnaires
Education Level: Higher Education; Postsecondary Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A
Author Affiliations: 1Kennesaw State University, Kennesaw, USA; 2University of Oregon, Eugene, USA

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