Instructional Strategies

Instructional Strategies

Instructional strategies are techniques instructors use to help students become independent learners and gain a better understanding of the concepts you teach. These strategies can motivate students and help them focus. Some strategies can help to organize the information for even deeper learning.

Scaffolding

Active Learning

An instructional strategy that involves actively engaging students with the course material through discussions, problem solving, case studies, role plays and other methods. Active learning activities may range in length of time from a couple of minutes to an entire class session.

Peer and Group Learning

An instructional strategy where students or peers support each other in the learning process. There are different forms of peer learning such as peer support groups and peer tutoring.

Classroom Management

Classroom management is the methods and strategies an instructor uses to maintain a learning environment that positively impacts student success and learning. This includes setting expectations and boundaries for your students.

Common Questions

How can I encourage all of my students to participate in active learning?

Acknowledge that switching to a more “active” approach will take time, and that it might not happen all at once. It’s OK to add a few things every semester. However, here are some things to remember:

Explain to students the benefits of incorporating active learning in the classroom.
Be transparent and receptive to feedback, but hold students accountable for participation.
Check to ensure that students have understood the instructions of the task before they begin it.

Active Learning Strategies (CC by NC)

Does group or peer learning work online?

Group and peer learning is a great way to create a connection for students learning online.

Further Resources

University of Waterloo – Active Learning Activities