Meaningful active learning

Abstract

Traditional science teaching, centered in the teacher that “gives the subject matter”, trying to explain it as better as possible, is worse than ineffective, it’s unscientific (Carl Wieman). Teaching cannot be monological but dialogical (Paulo Freire), and the student must participate actively in the teaching-learning process. However, active learning doesn’t mean simply “hands on” because it must involve, fundamentally, meaningful cognitive aspects. As much active teaching is, as much technological it is, learning must be meaningful (David Ausubel), that is, with meaning, comprehension, ability to explain, to apply acquired knowledges, declaratives or procedurals. Active learning without meaning doesn’t make sense.