Unlike traditional methods, where the main emphasis is on the transfer of information from teacher to student, it encourages involvement, independence, and critical thinking of learners.
What Are Benefits of Interactive Learning?
Benefits of Interactive Learning
- Firstly, it improves understanding of the material through active participation and practical application of knowledge.
- Secondly, interactive learning develops critical thinking and problem-solving skills, as students often face tasks that require analysis and synthesis of information.
- Thirdly, this approach increases students’ motivation, as learning becomes more exciting and less monotonous.
- Finally, interactivity supports the development of communication skills and promotes peer learning, which is an important aspect of future activities.
- Interactive learning provides students with feedback at every stage of learning, which helps them understand their mistakes and improve their skills.
Disadvantages of Interactive Learning
However, there are possible disadvantages and limitations of interactive learning.
- One of the main disadvantages is the need for additional resources, such as specialized equipment or software.
- In addition, preparing and planning lessons may require more time and effort from the teacher compared to traditional methods.
- Another disadvantage is the possible difficulties in adapting to this approach for some students, especially for those accustomed to a passive learning style.
- Finally, interactive learning requires active participation of all students, which may bring some problems in large groups, where it is more difficult to pay attention to each student.
What Are Interactive Learning Examples?
Let's look at examples of interactive learning that are suitable for corporate courses. They can be roughly divided into simulations, including game and non-game, and non-simulation.
- Game-based methods include business games, role-playing training, etc. These are the most engaging activities, during which students are completely immersed in the process.
- Non-game teaching methods can include working in pairs or small groups and modeling work situations.
- And non-simulation activities include brainstorming or discussion.
After choosing a learning method, you need to decide in what form your training program will be held. Interactive forms of training are how training is organized. In corporate online education, there are several popular interactive learning examples that are commonly used:
- Master classes, during which experience is transferred from the teacher to the students.
- Interactive webinars are a format in which a classical lecture is supplemented with a discussion or debate.
- Voting and polls as part of training, for example, to find the right solution. Students share their thoughts and argue their point of view.
- Project work on a given task.
- Debates, during which students learn to present correct arguments and listen to opposing points of view.
- Business games with role-playing situations close to real ones.
The choice of the training format determines which interactive tools are suitable for training. Training tools are a way to convey information to students. They can be oral and written, visual and practical. Most often, the teacher uses several tools at once. For example, shows slides, tells the theory, and conducts online voting and testing using the interactive training LMS platform.
Interactive Learning Technologies
Interactive learning technologies are a variety of methods and approaches aimed at engaging students in the learning process. These technologies help to better assimilate the material, stimulate the improvement of critical thinking skills, and increase motivation. Here are some types of tools that can help you to run interactive training programs online:
LMS with interactive features (e.g. EducateMe, 360Learning). These systems support various interactive features, such as discussion forums, live chats, and multimedia content, to enhance learner engagement. It also provides the opportunity to study remotely and have access to extensive educational resources.
Additionally, LMS platforms typically offer tracking and reporting tools, allowing organizations to monitor progress and assess the effectiveness of their training programs.
Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR). VR allows you to create immersive environments. For example, medical students can perform surgeries in a virtual environment. AR adds virtual elements to the real world. Students can study human anatomy by creating virtual models of organs and tissues. This allows them to see what they are studying in three dimensions and with the ability to change parameters.
Interactive whiteboards. These tools allow instructors to create live lessons, share content, and engage learners in active participation.
Gamification or game elements. Using points, badges, and leaderboards enhances engagement and motivates learners to achieve their educational goals.
Main Conditions for Successful Interactive Learning
1. Thoughtful organization of comfortable learning space and necessary equipment for the lesson.
2. Psychological readiness of learners and the instructor for cooperation on a partnership basis.
3. Combination of cognitive and social motivation (focus learners not only on mastering the educational material but also on searching, and discovering practical knowledge and experience necessary for life).
4. Involvement of all learners in interactive learning activities. Knowledge of the main feature of interactive learning: joint activities benefit everyone.
5. Don't allow many groups, so each learner can speak out and be heard.
6. Thoughtfulness and consistency of the lesson procedure and regulations and strict adherence to them.
7. Respect for the rights of everyone, don't express value judgments about partners.
8. Use various techniques to form groups (initially use a method based on voluntaries — by interests).
9. When managing interaction, encourage learners to express their own points of view rather than simply repeating what others have said.
Interactive Training FAQ
What is the purpose of interactive learning?
The purpose of interactive learning is to engage students actively in the learning process, enhancing understanding and retention through participation, collaboration, and hands-on activities.
What is the interactive method of teaching?
The interactive method of teaching involves techniques that promote active student participation, such as discussions, group work, problem-solving activities, and the use of multimedia resources.
What are examples of interactive programs?
Examples of interactive programs include online learning platforms with gamified elements, virtual simulations, interactive webinars, and collaborative software tools like Google Workspace and Microsoft Teams.
What are interactive learning activities?
Interactive learning activities are tasks that require active engagement from learners, such as group discussions, role-playing, quizzes, interactive videos, and hands-on projects.
Why is interactive learning better?
Interactive learning is better because it increases student engagement, improves retention, encourages critical thinking, and makes learning more enjoyable and relevant to real-world situations.
