The Active Learning Summit at the University of Georgia drew a strong crowd this year with 429 participants. The event was held at the Georgia Center for Continuing Education from February 11-13. Out of all attendees, 350 were from UGA, showcasing the university’s commitment to innovative teaching practices.
The summit also attracted 79 guests from other institutions, including Athens Academy and universities like Missouri S&T and Iowa State. This shows that the event is gaining national interest.
Keynote speaker Saundra McGuire delivered an inspiring talk about encouraging students to take charge of their learning. Drawing from her book, “Teach Students How to Learn,” she involved the audience in discussions, creating an engaging atmosphere. McGuire, a former director at the Center for Academic Success at LSU, addressed why some successful high school graduates struggle in college. She emphasized the importance of metacognition, or thinking about one’s own thinking, as a tool for overcoming obstacles.
“I tell students, ‘I don’t care if you made 50% on the first test,’” McGuire explained. “You just didn’t have the right strategies.” She shared practical tips on study methods and improving reading comprehension. McGuire also hosted breakout sessions for deeper engagement with her research.
The summit included various activities, such as a preconference workshop on strategies for sustaining active learning. Roundtables delved into how generative AI can enhance student ownership of learning. Attendees learned how universal design can make education more accessible and discussed ways to maintain focus in tech-driven classrooms.
Networking opportunities allowed participants to share ideas and build connections. Leah Carmichael, UGA’s director of active learning, noted, “The Active Learning Summit has become a hub for collaboration around teaching and learning. The engagement from our UGA community, alongside growing participation from other institutions, creates a powerful dialogue about student-centered education.”
According to a recent survey by the Educause Center for Analysis and Research, 54% of college faculty believe that active learning strategies significantly enhance student engagement. This growing belief highlights the importance of summits like this.
As the education landscape evolves, gatherings like the Active Learning Summit play a crucial role in shaping effective teaching practices and building a community dedicated to innovative learning.
