ERIC Number: EJ1148162
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2017-Jul
Pages: 10
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-0047-231X
EISSN: N/A
Facilitating Active Engagement of the University Student in a Large-Group Setting Using Group Work Activities
Kinsella, Gemma K.; Mahon, Catherine; Lillis, Seamus
Journal of College Science Teaching, v46 n6 p34-43 Jul 2017
It is envisaged that small-group exercises as part of a large-group session would facilitate not only group work exercises (a valuable employability skill), but also peer learning. In this article, such a strategy to facilitate the active engagement of the student in a large-group setting was explored. The production of student-led resources was facilitated through introduction of a group project into an established core module. Whether this initiative enhanced student engagement with the module material and fostered the additional benefit of promoting a peer learning culture was examined. Student feedback was analyzed to determine the perceived benefits and challenges of small group exercises. Albeit on a small scale, this has given rise to recommendations pertinent to large group modules in the university setting. A key recommendation is the introduction of university group assignments, when appropriate to the module type and inclusion of a peer assessment element.
Descriptors: Large Group Instruction, Group Activities, Learner Engagement, College Science, Science Instruction, Peer Teaching, Learning Activities, Peer Evaluation, Feedback (Response), Class Size, Cooperative Learning, Undergraduate Students, Biochemistry, Peer Relationship, Integrated Learning Systems, Virtual Classrooms, Online Courses, Foreign Countries, Small Group Instruction
National Science Teachers Association. 1840 Wilson Boulevard, Arlington, VA 22201-3000. Tel: 800-722-6782; Fax: 703-243-3924; e-mail: membership@nsta.org; Web site: http://www.nsta.org
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: Higher Education; Postsecondary Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Identifiers - Location: Ireland
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A