Leigh Shapiro, DALChampion
- Tell me about your experience with DALC. What has been the best part?
Being a member of the DALC group was an invigorating and inspiring experience.
As an architect, the best part was being involved in a design experiment. Using the active learning classrooms was a unique opportunity to test and observe the classroom environment. It was gratifying and sometimes challenging to apply active learning strategies with students using new technologies. The backdrop for learning was a success. The students and I felt privileged to use these unique classrooms.
- How do you think active learning pedagogy enriches the learning experience?
Design students are very familiar with group work and have the privilege of working in studios. Active learning strategies provide a way to build on the studio experience and explore some difficult content together as a group. At the same time, students take responsibility for their own learning. They are encouraged to share, resulting in the best learning experience.
- How has adopting an active learning approach informed your practice?
Many times, I forced the students to leave the classroom so the next class could begin. If the physical environment is supportive, students are engaged and motivated. If the appropriate tools, content and strategies are in place, students want to learn. I practice standing back and I let the learning happen.
