Library Instruction: Active Learning and Humor Laura Saunders Simmons College June 2002

Active Learning Active learning refers to any number of techniques in which learners are motivated to interact directly with curriculum content, not merely gain exposure to it through the traditional avenues such as reading, listening, or observing –Tracy Bicknell-Holmes, Paul Seth Hoffman

Types of Active Learning Discussion Question and Answer Hands-On Peer Tutoring Discovery Learning –Case-Based Learning –Learning by Reflection –Simulation-Based Learning –Incidental Learning

Peer Tutoring Students teach each other Can work well in classes of mixed abilities, grade levels Students retain much more of what they teach- the teachers are learning, too!

Case-Based Learning Students learn vicariously through stories that illustrate effective use of knowledge and skills –Case Studies

Incidental Learning Content is linked to fun, game-based activities. Students “learn in passing” –Library Jeopardy –Murder Mystery –Crossword Puzzles

Learning by Reflection Students apply higher-level cognitive skills to carry out sophisticated analyses. –Web Site Evaluation –Journaling

Simulation-Based Learning Instructor creates an artificial environment to provide learning and the practice of skills –Role-playing

Humor Humor can be very effective in engaging, motivating and interesting students in the subject matter. Humor helps alleviate stress. Librarians do not have to be stand up comedians in order to integrate humor into their teaching.

Humor Humorous stories, jokes Humorous questions, problem sets Warning or cautions on a set of handouts Spontaneous humor Planned humor Comic Strips Graphics Audio Clips

Things to Remember Don’t give up after one try. Practice, practice, practice. Always remember your audience. Integrate new methods slowly. Be Yourself.

Thank You!!

Humorous Questions You’ve been working out at the gym for a few weeks, and all of a sudden your back hurts. Who would you ask for advice? aThe doctor bA psychic cYour mom