Classroom Active Learning Complemented by an Online Discussion Forum to Teach Sustainability

Abstract

This paper identifies some of the pedagogical benefits of an active learning course delivery complemented by an online discussion forum to teach sustainability by evaluating the case of a geography master's course. The potential benefits and some challenges of an active learning course delivery to teach sustainability in geography and related disciplines are considered. This case study further supports past research that suggests e-learning as a complement to the classroom (1) increases the opportunities for student participation; and (2) enhances the participation of students who may feel more inhibited to engage in discussions in a traditional classroom setting.

The Power of Debate: Reflections on the Potential of Debates for Engaging Students in Critical Thinking about Controversial Geographical Topics

“…Online debate An online synchronous discussion offers the opportunity to engage people at a distance, and perhaps appeal to students who are not as confident speaking in front of the class (Dengler, 2008). This could be established for a debate.…”

Effectively Using Discussion Boards to Engage Students in Introductory Leadership Courses

“…Meyer (2006) shared similar research findings stating that the use of discussion boards provided students with a chance to first analyze course content and peers' posts, and then develop meaningful, well written, grammatically correct responses. This process is especially helpful for students for whom English is a second language (Alvarez-Torres, 2001) and can serve as a means of inclusiveness (Dengler, 2008). Furthermore, if the topic being discussed is sensitive or challenges students to consider their own biases or beliefs, an asynchronous online discussion board can be a safe place for students to formulate and openly express their thoughts and opinions.…”

An Overview of Four Proposed Indicators of Active Learning to Improve English Teaching and Learning in Saudi Arabia

“…The key factors of active learning are students" activity and active involvement in the process of learning (Prince, 2004). Active learning has typically contradicted the traditional teacher-centred approach, where the latter approach emphasizes on students as being passive recipients of knowledge from instructors (Prince, 2004;Bell & Kozlowski, 2008;Dengler, 2008). Previous research (e.g., Braxton, Milem, & Sullivan, 2000;Dengler, 2008;Bell & Kozlowski, 2008;Sivan, Leung, Woon, & Kember, 2000) , which can be used to improve Saudi students" English learning.…”

“…Active learning is an important means to enhance students" learning experiences (Prince, 2004;Dengler, 2008). Researchers (e.g., Bonwell & Eison, 1991;Faust & Paulson, 1998;Prince, 2004) have generally defined active learning as any instructional method that engages students to take part in meaningful learning tasks, and encourages them to think about the tasks they are doing.…”