Definitions of Key Terms

As you engage with FLSI, you may encounter some unfamiliar terms. Here are definitions of a few key terms and phrases that will be useful.

• Active learning: “Active learning is generally defined as any instructional method that engages students in the learning process. In short, active learning requires students to do meaningful learning activities and think about what they are doing.” (Prince, 2004)
• Collaborative learning: “Collaborative learning is an educational approach to teaching and learning that involves groups of learners working together to solve a problem, complete a task, or create a product.” (Laal & Ghodsi, 2012)
• Student-centered learning: Planning, teaching and assessment centers around the needs and abilities of students. (International Society for Technology in Education)
• Mobile furniture: Classroom furniture designed to be easily moved in order to facilitate grouping for collaborative learning and transitions among educational activities.
• General Purpose Classrooms: General Purpose Classrooms are designed to accommodate 20 to 75 students. They should contain at least 350 square feet (SF), and they should support a wide range of teaching and learning styles. Heavily utilized and serve the College of Arts and Sciences and several professional schools (Office of the Registrar)