Teaching Methods

The overarching goal of the QEP is to bring more dialogue and discussion-based learning into the undergraduate curriculum, and the university has identified three methods to do so: Harkness, flipped learning, and problem-based learning.  On the pages which follow, you will find a range of resources related to each of these methods, from general overviews and definitions to research on their effectiveness to implementable classroom resources.

Harkness

In the Harkness method, students initiate and lead discussions about assigned material, exchanging views and learning with and from one another, while faculty act primarily as facilitators to ensure balance and focus in discussions.

Flipped Learning

In flipped classrooms, students' first exposure to content - through readings, video, or some other medium - takes place before class, and class time is primarily dedicated to activities which promote active learning like case studies, debates, and projects.

 

Problem-Based Learning

In problem-based learning, students learn by working in groups to solve open-ended problems. They work to define problems, identify and search for necessary resources, generate and evaluate possible solutions, and finally present the most viable solution(s).