Active learning in a large first year biology class: a collaborative resource‐based study project on AIDS in science and society

Sutcliffe, R. G., Cogdell, B., Hansell, M. H. and McAteer, E. (1999) Active learning in a large first year biology class: a collaborative resource‐based study project on AIDS in science and society. Innovations in Education and Training International, 36(1), pp. 53-64. (doi: 10.1080/1355800990360108)

Abstract

Didactic instruction encourages passive learning and deters students from developing inquisitive‐ness, reasoning, problem solving and teamwork. We therefore introduced a Study Project, AIDS in Science and Society, to our first year Biology students (n = 550 to 750). For 30 to 40 hours of resourced‐based learning, students worked in autonomous study groups, preparing for inter‐group debates and the submission of personal written work. No academic lecture support for AIDS was provided. Independent staff assessed the quality of written work and held interviews and questionnaire sessions with students and tutors. The quality of student written work was highly acceptable, and tutors supported the exercise. The participation rate by students was very high (93%) and 89 to 92% of students stated that the project was a good way to learn. Students without prior qualifications in biology completed the project as satisfactoraly as others. A resource bibliography is included.

• Item Type: Articles
• Status: Published
• Refereed: Yes
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Hansell, Professor Michael and Sutcliffe, Dr Roger and Cogdell, Dr Barbara
• Authors: Sutcliffe, R. G., Cogdell, B., Hansell, M. H., and McAteer, E.
• College/School: College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences; College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Biodiversity, One Health & Veterinary Medicine
• Journal Name: Innovations in Education and Training International
• Publisher: Routledge
• ISSN: 1355-8005
• ISSN (Online): 1469-8420