Active learning approaches used in these spaces have been found to improve student learning outcomes and satisfaction, compared to learning in a traditional classroom.

Some students also perceive active learning spaces to be effective for group activities but not when they use mainly for didactic teaching. Hence, it is important to design activities that are optimised for these spaces such as discussion and collaboration.
You can use active learning spaces for a variety of active, collaborative and multimodal activities, including group work, problem-solving, class discussions, debates, team-based learning, and case-based learning.

Example of activities:

  • Set a challenging problem and task your students to work out the problem in teams, with you going around the room to observe and facilitate their discussions. Each team shares their solutions with the class using computers-on-wheels (COWs) in the room
  • Divide students into teams and provide each team with a different set of materials to study. After discussing their findings as a group, they will rearrange themselves into new groups to share these findings with their peers from other teams
     

Read More
Lim, S.M., G.A.C. Carpio, & Ong, C.M. (2019) Evaluation of engagement in learning within active learning classrooms: Does novelty make a difference? Journal of Learning Spaces, 8(2). Retrieved from http://libjournal.uncg.edu/jls/article/view/1791

Active Learning Spaces at SIT

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Applied & Collaborative Environment (ACE) rooms

To promote student-centred learning, such as through problem-based learning, team-based learning, project work, and group discussion, ACE rooms feature flexible seating arrangement and computers-on-wheels (COWs). These rooms are found on all SIT campuses.

Learn more about ACE

Lectorials

The lectorial is designed to increase student engagement opportunities in large classes. It supports delivery of both a traditionally didactic lecture and a collaborative tutorial. The lectorial is tiered to allow you to see every student, and students can easily turn to face each other for small group discussions. 

  • Location: SIT@Dover, AP – LT 1B
  • For booking for activities held between week 1 to 4 of each trimester, you can submit the venue booking form to APA (Marie Gina and Sally Yong).  For activities held from week 5 onwards, please use the self-service booking in Resource Booking System (RBS).
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Node classrooms

The node classroom is fitted with node chairs that allow students to quickly arrange themselves for different learning activities. Each node chair is a swivel seat on casters, featuring an adjustable work surface that can be swung out or pulled in, and storage space below for personal belongings.

  • Locations: SIT@Dover, Shed – SR 1A, SR 1B, 2C, 2D, 2E
  • For booking for activities held between week 1 to 4 of each trimester, you can submit the venue booking form to APA (Marie Gina and Sally Yong).  For activities held from week 5 onwards, please use the self-service booking in Resource Booking System (RBS).

Online Learning Environment

An online learning environment can be an active learning space too. A guide on things students should prepare for online learning is available in the Student Intranet (login required).

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Need help?


Talk to SIT Teaching and Learning Academy about designing your lessons for active learning. We are also ready to provide you with training and classroom support.

CONTACT US

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A collection of educational technology software, equipment and facilities for SIT staff.
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A list of self-learning materials for some popular recommended software and platforms at SIT.