Active learning in a high school economics class: a framework for learner engagement

[摘要] English: The aim of the study was to develop an active learning framework in a high school economics class. The research project intends to create an active learning environment to enhance learner engagement. The study argues that active learning approach seems to help the learners to understand the abstract economics concepts better, compared to the heavy reliance on the chalk-and-talk approach, which often leads to learner passivity in the classroom and rote learning. This study is located in the critical theoretical framework, which aims at promoting critical consciousness, empowerment, emancipation and transformation. It is the aim of this active learning framework to assist in changing the current teacher role in class from that of a knowledge transmitter to a role of facilitator and guide in the teaching and learning environment, and assist the teachers to become selfreflective practitioners. The framework will also empower the learners to become active participants and co-constructors of knowledge in class, thus freeing them from their usual passive role in the economics class. The study was conducted using a Participatory Action Research methodology (PAR). The choice of this methodology was informed by the notion that people who experience a common problem in their daily lives are better positioned to investigate the problem and propose solutions to that problem. A team comprised of the economics educators and learners participated in this collaborative effort to generate the data that were used to create the active learning framework. The study found that learners seem to gain a deeper understanding of the economics concepts when they are engaged in illustrating them practically in class. The study also found that willingness to change from the traditional way of teaching seems to be a major challenge in adopting this learnercentred active learning approach. The study, however, recommends that a gradual and sustained implementation of this approach in class is necessary for both teachers and learners to develop confidence in it and realise its value.

[发布机构] University of the Free State