Students learn and retain information and skills better if they are engaged in the classroom. Creating an active learning environment, where students actively participate and reflect on their learning, enhances critical thinking and fosters a deeper understanding of course material.

Instructors can encourage student participation by employing a variety of strategies designed to keep students engaged and draw them into the process of learning. Asking open-ended questions, for instance, can stimulate thought-provoking classroom conversations, allowing students to explore and articulate their understanding of the subject matter. Creating engaging and interactive lectures can also captivate students’ attention and make the learning process more enjoyable.

Fostering an environment where students feel comfortable giving and receiving constructive feedback can also enhance the learning experience for everyone involved. We encourage you to explore the resources below which are designed to help you create a richer educational experience for both you and your students.

On Questions

What kind of questions do you want to ask?

A guide on the types of questions you can ask to meet your classroom discussion goals. 

Low-Prep Teaching Strategies

Research-based, minimal prep needed

Explore this menu of easy to implement strategies for creating an engaging classroom environment.

Motivating Assessments Checklist

Driving students to deeper learning

Strategies you can incorporate into your assessment structures to help motivate students to actively engage in their own learning.

Creating Motivating Course Structures

Strategies for a motivating learning environment

Guidance and advice on how you can foster student motivation no matter what your learning environment looks like.

Encouraging Students to Give Constructive Feedback

Advice on how to gather feedback

This PDF provides guidance on how you can engage students to provide feedback during the semester. 

Engaging and Interactive Lectures Checklist

Active learning strategies

Download this PDF to check the strategies you're using to create an interactive and engaging lecture experience for your students.