Argumentation during active learning strategies in a SCALE-UP environment

Abstract

In this study, we explore students’ discussions during active learning strategies of Peer Instruction and Tutorial-like activities in a SCALE-UP environment. Discussions were recorded in one of the tables of a student-centered learning room in Mexico, and analyzed through a qualitative approach using Toulmin’s argumentation pattern as a framework of reference. We found that the circular table functions as a learning community in the SCALE-UP environment, however, the dynamics of argumentation of the table are different while implementing each learning strategy. During Tutorial-like activities, students center their discussions on each small team, while during peer instruction students center their discussion around the whole table. These findings provide an insight into the kind of competencies that we mean to develop in our students by engaging them in active learning strategies in student centered learning environments.