Leveraging online learning to build active learning opportunities
Addressing objectives:
T1A Increase flexible curricula
T1D Advance technology-enabled learning ecosystem
A joint project launched in 2021 by CTE, CEL, and Waterloo’s Faculty-based teaching fellows, the Blended Learning Initiative (BLI) will help instructors leverage technology-enabled strategies to optimize in-person instruction. Using a flipped classroom approach, instructors use digital strategies (online) for didactic mini-lectures and other preparatory activities, reserving in-person time for high impact learning approaches like small group discussions, problem solving, or case studies to engage learners in applying the subject matter.
CTE and CEL created a Remote to Flipped Course Redesign workshop in spring 2021 to support faculty and instructors interested in using these approaches. So far, the workshop has been offered five times with 62 participants from across all faculties. Instructors who took part in the workshop reported that they changed their teaching practice to better integrate online activities, and focus in-person learning time on interactive, engaging activities, which they report has increased student engagement. In-class time can also be reduced, which alleviates pressure on classroom space availability. Learn more about Waterloo’s Blended Learning Initiative.
Moving forward: Additional BLI workshops will be offered in 2022-2023 to support flipped course design. A new community of practice will support instructors working on remote to flipped course design, and internal infrastructure will continue to be developed to support these learning models. Ultimately, these efforts will improve student learning outcomes, faculty satisfaction and experience, while also reducing pressure on use of classroom space.