NSSE - Active and Collaborative Learning

Students learn more when they are intensely involved in their education and asked to think about what they are learning in different settings. Collaborating with others in solving problems or mastering difficult material prepares students for the messy, unscripted problems they will encounter daily during and after college. 

 

UW-L

UW-System

Carnegie Peers

 

Meana

Mean

Effect Sizeb

Mean

Effect Size

Freshmen

40.5

38.9**

.11

42.3***

-.11

Seniors

53.0

51.9*

.07

51.3***

.10

a Scores are averages based on a 100 point scale on which higher scores indicate higher levels of endorsement.  * = p < .05, ** = p < .01, *** = p < .001

b Effect size indicates “practical significance” of the mean difference.  In practice, an effect size of .2 is considered small, .5 moderate, and .8 large.  Effect sizes below .2 generally do not suggest means are practically significant.

Active and Collaborative Learning

Data based on 2008 NSSE. UW-L First-Year n = 882, Senior n = 983.

 

Active and Collaborative Learning Items

  • Asked questions in class or contributed to class discussions
  • Made a class presentation
  • Worked with other students on projects during class
  • Worked with classmates outside of class to prepare class assignments
  • Tutored or taught other students
  • Participated in a community-based project as part of a regular course
  • Discussed ideas from your readings or classes with others outside of class (students, family members, coworkers, etc.)