Active and Collaborative Learning

Students learn more when they are actively involved in their education and have opportunities to think about and apply what they are learning in different settings. Through collaborating with others to solve problems or master challenging content, students develop valuable skills that prepare them to deal with the kinds of situations and problems they will encounter in the workplace, the community, and their personal lives. The following seven survey items contribute to this benchmark.

During the current school year, how often have you:

• Asked questions in class or contributed to class discussions
• Made a class presentation
• Worked with other students on projects during class
• Worked with classmates outside of class to prepare class assignments
• Tutored or taught other students (paid or voluntary)
• Participated in a community-based project as a part of a regular course
• Discussed ideas from your readings or classes with others outside of class (students, family members, co-workers, etc.)

Key Findings: Active and Collaborative Learning

• 63% of respondents report that they asked questions in class or contributed to class discussions either often or very often. This leaves 37% who have engaged in these activities less frequently or not at all.
• Only 27% have often or very often made a class presentation. One third (33%) have never done so.
• Fewer than half (44%) often or very often worked with other students on projects during class, while 14% report never having that experience.
• Only 21% worked with classmates outside of class to prepare class assignments.
• A small percentage (7%) have tutored or taught other students often or very often.
• 20% have at least occasionally participated in a community-based project as part of a regular course.
• 50% often or very often discussed ideas from readings or classes with others outside of class (students, family members, co-workers, etc.)

For examples of intentional strategies that colleges are using to promote active and collaborative learning, see CCSSE's 2004 National Report, Engagement by Design.

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