Enabling Next-Generation Active Learning Environments that Accelerate Dialogue and Co-creation
Moving beyond the traditional lecture format, in which knowledge is conveyed one-way from teachers to students, active learning empowers students to think independently, engage in discussion, and tackle challenges. This section introduces the concept of active learning, which has been rapidly gaining adoption in educational settings in recent years, as well as key considerations for its successful implementation.
What Is Active Learning?
Active learning enables an active approach to teaching and learning. By creating a learning environment where students proactively identify problems and find their own answers, it is possible to foster independent and proactive learners – something which is difficult to achieve through passive learning experiences alone.
Typical Methods of Active Learning
1.Group Discussions and Workshops
Students discuss a given topic in small groups, generate ideas, and bring together different opinions.
2.PBL (Project-Based Learning)
Students work in teams to research and analyze specific real-world issues, such as community or business-related challenges, and propose and implement solutions.
3.Flipped Classroom
Students learn the necessary information in advance through videos and other materials, and class time is focused on output, such as discussions, exercises, and Q&A.
4.Presentations and Poster Sessions
Students present the results of their research and discussions to others, receive feedback, and further develop their ideas.
5.Peer Learning
Students teach each other and evaluate each other’s work through activities such as peer review.
Key Considerations for Implementation
To achieve effective active learning, it is important to create an environment where teachers and students can focus on their classes without confusion or interruption. Here are some key considerations for implementation that help balance ease of use in the classroom with system stability.
1. A Simple System That Does Not Interrupt Learning
Active learning requires various materials to be shared and displayed at different stages of the learning process. To avoid interrupting the flow of learning, it is important to have a system that allows intuitive operation, such as turning the system on and off and switching between displays.
2. A Seamless Connection Environment That Supports Various Devices
It is essential to support a wide range of devices brought by students and teachers (BYOD), without requiring dedicated apps or advance setup. An environment where anyone can share content as soon as they want to encourages students to speak up and actively participate in discussions.
3. Flexible Visibility and Space Design for the Entire Room
To allow users to move freely between group work and presentations to the entire class, equipment should be arranged so that screens are clearly visible from every seat and the room can be flexibly rearranged. A design that does not obstruct sightlines or movement helps students stay focused on discussions.
4. Stable Network and Maintenance
In active learning environments where multiple high-resolution video streams are used, it is essential to reduce video delays and network load. In addition, establishing a maintenance system, including remote management, helps prevent classes from being disrupted by technical issues.
Examples of Our Solution in Use
College of Bioresource Sciences, Nihon University
Renovation of an active learning studio to support active learning. Cynap and vSolution MATRIX were introduced as part of the renovation.
Products Related to Our Solution
Cynap – Wireless Presentation System:
Create a smart meeting and learning environment without the need for apps or cables.
vSolution MATRIX:
An AV over IP solution that uses the existing network to create advanced collaborative learning and collaboration spaces.
CHIeru “ABLish” – Active Learning Support System:
Achieve deeper learning with interactive digital teaching materials and a variety of learning tools. A wide range of teaching materials is also delivered three times a week to help address shortages of learning materials.
ELMO Board – All-in-One Interactive Whiteboard for Education:
Compare different ideas, organize information, and encourage new insights with an all-in-one interactive whiteboard.
CHIeru “Tbridge” – Wireless LAN Optimization Solution:
Reduce stress when using a wireless LAN by optimizing TCP communication.
CHIeru “CHIeru.net” Digital Learning Materials:
A cloud-based e-learning content delivery service for schools.
Interactive Projector:
An interactive ultra-short-throw model that can be wall-mounted.
LCD Interactive Whiteboard – Sony 4K BRAVIA for Business:
A Sony 4K interactive whiteboard combining BRAVIA with a touch panel.
“Smart Operation Panel”- Easy-to-Use Control Panel:
An intuitive operation environment designed around different learning styles, allowing the learning process to continue without interruption.
Totsu LEDVISION – All-in-One Interactive LED Display:
A high-performance LED display using COB technology. It can also be used together with blackboards and whiteboards.
Electronic Board – StarBoard®:
Supports easy display, writing, saving, and sharing of content to provide clearer and more engaging lessons.
Electronic Board – REGZA CANVAS:
A multifunctional interactive whiteboard certified by Google EDLA, allowing users to access Google Play Store and Google Workspace for Education.