These research-backed principles focus on optimizing the educational experience through the following areas:
1. Encourages Student-Faculty Contact
Building rapport and maintaining regular communication with professors increases student motivation and intellectual commitment. [1, 2]
- Examples: Faculty holding office hours, being accessible via email or messaging, and acting as mentors. [1]
2. Develops Reciprocity and Cooperation Among Students
Learning is enhanced when it is collaborative and social, rather than competitive. [1, 2, 3]
3. Encourages Active Learning
Students learn best when they are mentally and physically engaged in the material, rather than just passively listening. [1, 2, 3]
- Examples: Class discussions, hands-on labs, debates, and applying concepts to real-world scenarios. [1, 2]
4. Gives Prompt Feedback
Feedback is most effective when provided quickly after an assignment, allowing students to assess their performance and adjust their learning methods. [1, 2, 3]
- Examples: Returning graded papers swiftly, offering constructive commentary, and conducting informal check-ins. [1, 2, 3]
5. Emphasizes Time on Task
Effective learning requires adequate time, focus, and realistic expectations regarding workload and pacing. [1, 2, 3]
- Examples: Clear deadlines, time-management strategies, and structured, incremental milestones for large projects. [1, 2, 3]
6. Communicates High Expectations
Setting high but attainable expectations motivates students to push their boundaries and perform at their highest capabilities. [1, 2]
- Examples: Providing detailed grading rubrics, recognizing exceptional work, and encouraging students to set ambitious personal goals. [1, 2]
7. Respects Diverse Talents and Ways of Learning
Instruction should accommodate different learning styles, backgrounds, and abilities to ensure all students have equal opportunities to succeed. [1, 2]