ERIC Number: EJ1283740
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2020-Dec
Pages: 16
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: EISSN-1527-9316
EISSN: N/A
Available Date: N/A
A Multi-Disciplinary Mixed-Methods Study of Group Dynamics in Active Learning Space
Gordy, Xiaoshan Zhu; Carr, Elizabeth O.; Zhang, Lei; Bailey, Jessica H.
Journal of the Scholarship of Teaching and Learning, v20 n3 p33-48 Dec 2020
Active learning spaces emerged at the turn of the twenty-first century. The active learning space design represents not only an overhaul of traditional classrooms' physical appearances but also reflects a paradigm shift from teacher-centered learning to student-centered learning. Current available research mainly focused on student academic performance as well as student and faculty perceptions. Limited research has been conducted to investigate interactions at the student level to find out what interactions are taking place in the active learning spaces and how they affect student learning. This study employed a sequential exploratory mixed-methods design inquiring into student learning in an active learning space first through student focus group discussions and then with an online student survey. The major themes emerged from the focus group discussions were utilized to develop the online survey. The purpose of this survey was to cross-validate qualitative outcomes and further seek answers to unanswered questions triggered by qualitative findings. The qualitative data indicated that the spatial equity in the active learning space put students in positive mindsets and induced active classroom participation. The interconnected screens made it easy for students to view class content and collaborate with peers. The group work conducted in the space fostered mutual learning, promoted learning accountability and improved peer relations. The quantitative survey data on group dynamics validated and reinforced qualitative findings. This paper will help educators better understand student behaviors in the active learning spaces and better design space-appropriate pedagogical strategies.
Descriptors: Active Learning, Group Dynamics, Classroom Design, Classroom Environment, Physical Environment, Space Utilization, Student Participation, Interaction, Peer Relationship, Cooperative Learning, Technology Integration, Positive Attitudes, College Students
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Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: Higher Education; Postsecondary Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A
Author Affiliations: N/A