A tool for measuring active learning in the classroom
Article comments
Originally published in American Journal of Pharmaceutical Education, v.71 no.5 (2007), article no.85. DOI:10.5688/aj710585
Abstract
Objectives. To develop a valid and reliable active-learning inventory tool for use in large classrooms and compare faculty perceptions of active-learning using the Active-Learning Inventory Tool.Methods. The Active-Learning Inventory Tool was developed using published literature and validated by national experts in educational research. Reliability was established by trained faculty members who used the Active-Learning Inventory Tool to observe 9 pharmacy lectures. Instructors were then interviewed to elicit perceptions regarding active learning and asked to share their perceptions.Results. Per lecture, 13 ( range: 4-34) episodes of active learning encompassing 3 ( range: 2-5) different types of active learning occurred over 2.2 minutes ( 0.6-16) per episode. Both interobserver (>= 87%) and observer-instructor agreement (>= 68%) were high for these outcomes.Conclusions. The Active-Learning Inventory Tool is a valid and reliable tool to measure active learning in the classroom. Future studies are needed to determine the impact of the Active-Learning Inventory Tool on teaching and its usefulness in other disciplines.
Suggested Citation
Jenny A. Van Amburgh, John W. Devlin, Jennifer L. Kirwin, and Donna M. Qualters. "A tool for measuring active learning in the classroom" Bouvé Faculty Publications (2007).
Available at: http://works.bepress.com/jvanamburgh/4