How to make learning more engaging through active learning

In an ever-changing educational context, keeping students motivated and engaged is one of the biggest challenges for teachers and trainers. Active learning methodologies place the student at the centre of the educational process, encouraging participation, reflection, and practical application of concepts. Instead of passively receiving information, students question, investigate, solve problems, and discuss ideas. As Carl Rogers pointed out, “The only person who is educated is the one who has learned how to learn and change.” (Rogers, 1969), [1] emphasizing that true learning involves autonomy, critical thinking, and adaptability. Thus, active methodologies, by encouraging investigation, problem solving, and collaboration, create an environment conducive to students not only absorbing content but also becoming protagonists of their own development, internalizing knowledge in a lasting and meaningful way.

Proven benefits of active learning

A meta-analysis of 225 studies in science, engineering, and mathematics concluded that active learning reduces failure rates from about 33% to 22% and significantly improves academic performance (Freeman et al., 2014). [2] Research also shows that this model promotes greater engagement, deeper understanding, collaboration, communication, and critical thinking skills.

Active teaching practices examples

• Problem-Based Learning: solving real problems in groups.
• Case studies: analyzing scenarios and applying theory.
• Flipped classroom: studying content beforehand to free up class time for discussion and practice.
• Peer teaching: students explain concepts to each other.
• Role-play and simulations: exploring perspectives in practical contexts.
• Think, Pair, Share: individual reflection, discussion in pairs, and sharing in groups.

The role of technology in active learning

Digital tools can make active learning even more engaging. At CITEVE, the Digital Skills Learning Center – a new feature of the CITEVE Academy – emerges as a technological response to the challenges of digital innovation and transition, as well as to the demands of current and future professionals in the textile and apparel sector driven by Industry 4.0 and 5.0.

It combines a new teaching platform for e-learning, blended learning, and self-learning with physical spaces, including:

• A hybrid training room;
• A technology room;
• An agile room fostering inspiration, creation, and collaborative work;
• A multimedia studio for photography, video, webinars, podcasts, and videocasts;
• A control room equipped with cameras, audio systems, interactive monitors, streaming, broadcasting, and content editing facilities;
• Experimentation laboratories with the latest equipment and software, designed to enhance interaction between trainers and trainees and support participatory training methodologies, both in-person and remotely.

Technology enriches training, but the Centre brings more than technology; it brings a new methodological approach.

Challenges and prospects

Despite its advantages, active learning requires a change in mindset, greater preparation, teacher training, and adequate resources. However, it represents an important step towards more student-centred education systems, emphasising active learning to stimulate creativity and critical thinking.

Active learning is more than a practice: it is a paradigm shift. By placing the student at the heart of the process, it makes learning more interactive, dynamic and meaningful, better preparing students for the challenges of professional and personal life.

The conclusions are very clear: when students are encouraged to explore, question and collaborate, they achieve a deeper understanding and more solid skills for life outside the classroom. The challenge for educators and institutions is to create environments that support these approaches — through a careful pedagogical model, technological tools, and a willingness to embrace change. In doing so, they will not only make learning more effective, but also more enjoyable and empowering for the next generations of students.

 

FOOTNOTES

[1] Rogers, C. R. (1969). Freedom to Learn: A View of What Education Might Become. C. E. Merrill Publishing Company.

[2] Freeman, S., Eddy, S. L., McDonough, M., Smith, M. K., Okoroafor, N., Jordt, H., & Wenderoth, M. P. (2014). Active learning increases student performance in science, engineering, and mathematics. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America, 111(23), 8410–8415. https://doi.org/10.1073/pnas.1319030111