It's Worth Reading
Written by: Annette Feravich
Mel Silberman’s book, Teaching Actively: Eight Steps and 32 strategies to Spark Learning in Any Classroom, is a supplement to his best-selling book, Active Learning: 101 Strategies to Teach Any Subject, and can be used to develop a theoretical framework around which new teaching and learning strategies can emerge. Silberman proposes an eight-step plan, which presents a comprehensive approach to teaching that includes actively involving students in the learning process. For example, Silberman’s first step, Engage the Student, details a number of strategies, including using “social” and “learning” ice-breakers and offers strategies for widening the pool of students participating in class discussions. Step 5, Letting Students Learn from Each Other, lists strategies for choosing and building groups, improving group cohesiveness, and immersing students in team learning that gradually promotes autonomy and self-responsibility.
References:
Silberman, M. (1996). Active Learning: 101 Strategies to Teach Any Subject. Boston, MA: Pearson Education, Inc.
Silberman, M. (2006). Teaching Actively: Eight Steps and 32 Strategies to Spark Learning in Any Classroom. Boston, MA: Pearson Education, Inc.
Each of the eight steps details three to five strategies instructors can use to incorporate the step into their teaching methods. In addition, each of the 32 strategies contains a planning worksheet that lists appropriate techniques and has an area for instructors to write a comprehensive plan for implementation. Instructors looking for specific active learning techniques should read Silberman’s book, Active Learning: 101 Strategies to Teach Any Subject. However, if you are looking to facilitate real student learning and structure your course from beginning to end in a manner that encourages active involvement and deep processing, Silberman’s book, Teaching Actively, is a great resource.
Annette Feravich, MA
Instructional Consultant, Office for Teaching & Learning
aferavich@wayne.edu
(313) 577-0250