Active Learning can be applied to any class size. There are strategies that work better in small classes, but many can be implemented in large classes as well including large lecture classes. Techniques that involve students talking to each other, working in groups, or responding to questions through in-class writing or polling can be integrated into almost any class.
Furthermore, a classroom does not need to have a high degree of technology in order for faculty to implement many of the AL strategies we discuss here. A standard classroom with movable furniture can be adapted to incorporate most Active Learning techniques. Recent studies indicate that the combination of these two elements (furniture on wheels, and the use of AL strategies) can produce higher engagement and better outcomes than the use of high tech tools (studies cited in Baepler, et. al. 2016). The authors also found that faculty who incorporated AL techniques in a more conventional classroom saw better outcomes than when they just lectured in a high tech Active Learning space (Baepler, et. al 2016).
That said, many universities continue to re-design traditional classrooms by integrating new and emerging technologies in order to facilitate the adoption of AL strategies.
Here are some examples of Active Learning spaces at Montclair State and other institutions:
MSU
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School of Communication, Multipurpose room, moveable furniture, monitors on wheels, remote cameras in corners, main screen with Faculty station.
For Active Learning purposes, tables and chairs can be rearranged to make smaller sets with monitors associated with specific station.
School of Business, Multipurpose room, moveable furniture, wall mounted monitors for each station.
For Active Learning purposes, tables and chairs can be rearranged to make larger sets with main screen and Faculty station.
Montclair State University’s School of Communication and Feliciano School of Business
Indiana-Univ
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Multipurpose room, moveable furniture with unique style of tables and chairs. Multiple screens with Faculty station.
Multipurpose room, moveable furniture, tables and chairs can be rearranged to make larger or smaller sets. Main interactive screen with Faculty station. Multiple whiteboards around room.
Multipurpose room, lounge-style moveable tables and chairs.
Multipurpose room, lounge-style moveable tables and chairs.
Indiana University’s Multi Purpose Active Learning Classrooms
Rutgers-Univ
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Active Learning Center, Multipurpose room, moveable furniture, multiple monitors, remote cameras in corners, main screen with Faculty station.
Rutgers University, New Brunswick Campus’ Active Learning Center and Multipurpose Room
George-Mason
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Active Learning Space Floor Plan, Multipurpose room, moveable furniture, main screen with Faculty station.
For Active Learning purposes, tables and chairs can be rearranged to make larger sets.
Multipurpose room, moveable furniture, tables and chairs can be rearranged to make larger sets. Main screen with Faculty station.
George Mason University’s Floor Plans of various Active Learning Classrooms
We have more ideas for active learning spaces on our Practical Teaching Guides page, under Optimize Your Learning Space.
Other Active Learning Spaces found in a general Google search.