The two-stage exam is a relatively simple way to introduce collaborative learning and formative assessment into an exam. Their use is rapidly growing in the physics department at the University of British Columbia, as both students and faculty find them rewarding. In a two-stage exam students first complete and turn in the exam individually, and…

While educators value wikis' potential, wikis may fail to support collaborative constructive learning without careful scaffolding. This article proposes literature-based instructional methods, revised based on two expert instructors' input, presents the collected empirical evidence on the effects of these methods and proposes directions for future…

In an attempt to influence students' appreciation of the value of research, the authors introduced a multidimensional scaling activity in a section of introductory psychology. In two consecutive 80-minute classes, 32 students worked in pairs, categorizing 20 crimes on the basis of similarity and coding their partner's responses, and then worked in…

Effective virtual simulations can embed participants in imaginary worlds. Researchers working in virtual worlds and gaming often refer to "immersion," a state in which a participant or player loses track of time and becomes one with the simulation. Immersive settings have been shown to deepen learning. Ken Hudson's work with students…

A study in a grade 6-7 Canadian elementary class identified three "spaces of inquiry" that encourage student participation in school science: generative spaces for brainstorming and collaboration; rehearsal spaces for presentation of ideas to the class for refinement; and performative spaces for presentation of finished creations to, and…