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Active Learning Conference 2021

All together - Active Inclusive Learning

20-21 July 2021, online

The fourth international Active Learning Conference, sponsored by Talis Elevate, began with an afternoon of masterclasses, followed by a day of keynotes and sessions to consider the practice, research and leadership of active, collaborative and inclusive learning.

Anglia Ruskin University is keen to engage attendees in developing a shared understanding and commitment to active learning. Colleagues from across the world joined us to explore how we can inspire and challenge all of our students by promoting rich and inclusive learning experiences. Have a look at the 2021 programme.

Team and group work: a student perspective of assessment and management

Programme structure

20 July: Afternoon of masterclasses

14.00-17.00

Attendees chose from a selection of three masterclasses below to deepen knowledge.

  • The Active Learning Podblast: an approach to promoting multimedia co-creation masterclass
  • Reinventing the online space masterclass
  • Digital storytelling masterclass

21 July: Conference day

10.00-16.30

Delegates were inspired by our keynote followed by active learning sessions, including sharing of practice through presentations, poster sessions, workshops, walks, soap boxes and lightning strikes. 

As this was an online event, we were particularly interested in engaging multimedia posters. This could be as simple as a narrated slideshow, or something more elaborate such as an animation or “walk and talk” video or demonstration.

Keynote: We were delighted to hear from Dr Alex Moseley, Head of Anglia Learning and Teaching. He spoke about the role of play and playfulness in active learning.

Play often forms a part of active learning approaches: such as game-based, creative, storytelling, prototyping or other activities. However, a playful attitude amongst both teacher/facilitators and participants can elevate the effectiveness of active learning approaches regardless of discipline or activity type. In this keynote Alex examined playfulness as an attitude, and how it shares and supports active learning as an approach.

Dr Janet Horrocks, Lecturer in Biomedical Science and Academic Practice, School of Applied Science and Abertay Learning Enhancement Academy at Abertay University, considered team and group work: a student perspective of assessment and management.