Active Learning Classrooms

Project Status: Implementation

This project will collect data from PSU faculty to better understand what active learning activities are taking place in our classrooms. With this data, we will amplify the engaging pedagogies used in our classrooms, identify the gaps that exist between existing active learning techniques faculty are using (or would like to use) and physical classroom configurations. This analysis will be compiled along with recommendations for development of a “PSU Active Learning Classroom” standard that would meet the needs of the highest priority use cases and that could be requested by faculty through normal classroom assignment processes, in addition to informing professional development opportunities.

Accomplished

Lapel Mic classroom pilot began Fall 2024
- Small group of faculty agreed to use the OIT lapel mic service in its current state so that we can better understand both the barriers to and benefits of classroom voice amplification.
- Pre-survey deployed
- Post-survey developed
Developed a Classroom Use Survey to identify if classrooms meet the needs of instructors
- Computer Science (CS) department completed survey
Redeveloped project charter to better reflect history and context of the project, define goals, and understand scope

In Progress

Outreach and delivery for Classroom Use Survey to departments
Data analysis of department classroom use surveys
Iterative improvement on survey and use protocol
Development of Active Learning Classroom definition and scorecard for classroom criteria

Project Team

Sponsor: Erin Shortlidge
Project Leads: Eleanor Hart and Isabel Elizalde
Project Manager: Mikky Bell
Steering Group: TBD
Additional Project Teams: TBD
Collaborators: Mark Jones and Jack Barbera