Unit 4: Active Learning & Self-Advocacy Written by Kathleen McCullough-Zander, MA, RN, CTN

Active learning You just did active learning Learning by doing-(reading, writing, discussing or problem-solving and not just listening) Responsibility for learning is on the learner

Why use active learning? During the first 10 minutes of a lecture, students remember about 70% of the information During the last 10 minutes of a lecture, they remember less than 20% (McKeachie, 1986) Passive learning is not retained

Active learning in nursing Memorization of facts is not enough Students need the higher level skills of analysis and synthesis Need to apply information in caring for patients

Successful nursing students Do all the reading prior to class and be ready to apply the information Student responsible for own learning – must seek out information, ask questions, figure out where to find answers Student must seek help if not doing well

Reference McKeachie, W.J. (1986). Teaching tips: A guidebook for the beginning college teacher. Lexington, MA: Houghton Mifflin.