Thinking Together

"Thinking Together" features three distinct models of collaborative learning: a large introductory physics lecture, a small class in celestial navigation, and a section in physical chemistry filmed at Harvard. In each course, students discuss problems and devise solutions with the help of their instructors and peers. The results are greater student engagement and greater depth of learning. How can you engage your students and be sure they are learning the conceptual foundations of a lecture course? In 'From Questions to Concepts', Harvard University Professor Eric Mazur introduces Peer Instruction and 'Just in Time' teaches two innovative techniques for lectures that can be used in class discussion and immediate feedback to improve student learning. Using these techniques in his innovative undergraduate physics course, Mazur demonstrates how lectures and active learning can be successfully combined.