Lectures have a place in educational history and even a place in today's classroom, but students must be exposed to more than one style of teaching. After 20 minutes of listening to a lecture, most students reach a saturation point. To realize their maximum potential, students must do more than just listen in the classroom. They must engage in activities and dialogue regarding the course materials. Teachers can use some simple techniques (other than lecturing) to encourage students to recognize the meaningfulness of a subject. Pausing at least three times during a lecture to allow for discussion among the students may help them clarify and assimilate the information. Sometimes "lectures" should be based on students' questions about a particular chapter. Student-led discussions move students from passive to active participation. Cooperative learning activities can be used in the classroom to enhance students' learning and develop their social skills. Problem solving is another useful active learning activity. Demonstrations can be used to stimulate students' curiosity and to improve their understanding of conceptual material and processes. Role playing situations allow students to experience situations. Games, debates, and simulations add variety to the classroom setting. Barriers to change include the following: teachers may feel very uncomfortable when trying something new; and administrators offer few incentives to change. (Contains 11 references.) (RS)