Balance of Passive Learning and Active Learning in University

Passive and active learning have been present during my time at the University of Victoria. The balance between passive and active learning at UVic depends on the course and learning environment. As a student in the social science faculty, active learning is essential for understanding course material. In comparison to other courses at the University of Victoria, there are elements of certain courses that limit the amount of active learning and focus widely on passive learning. With the limited presence of one learning method over the other in some of the courses I took at UVic, I needed to make sure that I adjusted both methods to learn effectively.

Passive Learning in University

Passive learning is the method of learning through instruction and absorbing information. In passive learning, students receive information from the instructor and internalize it (ASU Prep Digital, 2021). This means that passive learners will have to listen to the material and reflect internally without further reflection. Although passive learning can be seen as ineffective, some benefits contribute to better learning. During my experience in university, I found that classes such as science courses like chemistry or biology facilitated passive learning. The lecture-heavy classes required me to take time to really understand the concepts, which benefitted me as it made me think critically about concepts to improve my learning further.

Active Learning in University

Active learning is the process in which students engage their learning by discussing, investigating, and creating, among others, in a classroom (Active Learning | Center for Teaching Innovation, n.d.). Active learning helps students solve problems and practice skills within the learning environment. I experienced active learning during university in creative courses such as photography or English. Participating in discussions during class allowed me to instantly utilize my learning and apply what I learned through discussions and activities.

Final Thoughts

Active learning and passive learning are both effective styles of learning. Regarding the balance of both in learning, I prefer active learning over passive learning. Although active learning is my preference, I still enjoy passive learning. But when it comes to courses that require complex concepts, the presence of active learning would be beneficial as the current forms of active learning, such as labs, focus on entirely different material from the lecture. Ultimately, I would balance both active and passive learning by focusing more on active learning and then applying passive learning when applicable.

Active and Passive Learning H5P Activity

Watch the following video about the differences between active and passive learning. After watching the video, complete the next set of questions by choosing the correct option.




References

Active Learning | Center for Teaching Innovation. (n.d.). Retrieved November 6, 2022, from https://teaching.cornell.edu/teaching-resources/active-collaborative-learning/active-learning

ASU Prep Digital. (2021, April 15). Passive Learning vs Active Learning. https://www.asuprepdigital.org/student_blog/passive-learning-vs-active-learning/