Workshop on Effective Class Participation and Active Learning in Higher Education Completed
Dr. Ferah Özer Aker shared active learning methods at a higher education participation workshop, where academics discussed course design, motivation, digital tools, and student interaction.
The “Effective Class Participation in Higher Education” workshop, held as part of İNÜ-CELT Training at İstanbul Nişantaşı University NeoTech Campus, concluded with the participation of our academics. Speaker Dr. Ferah Özer Aker discussed methods for increasing active student participation, challenges and proposed solutions.
Participants explored the importance of student engagement, the contributions of active learning techniques and how faculty members can manage the process. Different student profiles provided a basis for discussing ways to engage uninterested students and circumstances that can cause loss of motivation. Internal and external barriers to participation were identified, with emphasis on areas where faculty members can intervene.
Dr. Aker offered practical suggestions on course design, material selection, classroom layout, digital tools and effective communication with students. She stressed arranging physical spaces for activities such as group work and highlighted the benefits of academics interacting with students rather than constantly lecturing. She also described active learning as an approach that involves students in class and prompts them to consider why they are learning.
Numerous methods of increasing engagement were discussed, with encouraging tools identified as supporting active learning and collaboration. The importance of the “Backward Course Design Model” for participation was also emphasised.
Sharing findings from a workshop at Koç University, Dr. Aker discussed student motivation and the challenges of making academic programmes appealing to younger generations. After evaluating various solutions, the workshop concluded with a productive exchange of academics’ ideas and suggestions.
