HILT 2019 Conference: Afternoon panel

TL;DR

Robyn Gittleman, former leader of the Experimental College at Tufts University, discusses the success of peer learning and the importance of giving students the space to take control of their own education.

Transcript

Peer learning-- so this is obviously something that each of us has some personal linkage to. And for me, I received on day 5 after I started teaching here at Harvard at Harvard Business School feedback from my students, saying, can you talk less and just give us more space to discuss with each other? [LAUGHTER] I thought it was a little presumptuou... Read More

Key Insights

• 🧑‍🎓 The Experimental College promotes peer learning and gives students the freedom and responsibility to shape their own courses.
• ♻️ Rather than relying on traditional lecture-style teaching, the emphasis is on creating an interactive and collaborative learning environment.
• 🧡 The Experimental College offers courses on a wide range of topics and encourages students to explore subjects that may not be covered in traditional departments.
• 🧑‍🎓 The role of the Experimental College in promoting character development, trust, and confidence among students is becoming increasingly important in the digital and online world.
• 🥺 Providing students with the opportunity to teach and take control of their education can lead to more engaging and effective learning experiences.
• 😌 The Experimental College complements traditional curriculum by focusing on subjects where students' interests and passions lie.
• ❓ The success of the Experimental College at Tufts University has inspired discussions about the possibility of similar programs at other institutions.

Questions & Answers

Q: What is the Experimental College and how does it differ from traditional educational institutions?

The Experimental College allows students to create and teach their own courses that reflect their interests and isn't restricted by traditional curriculum. It fosters a collaborative and interactive learning environment where students engage with each other.

Q: How does peer learning play a role in the Experimental College?

Peer learning is central to the Experimental College, as students have the opportunity to teach each other and engage in discussions. This approach recognizes that students have valuable insights and encourages them to take ownership of their education.

Q: What subjects are typically taught in the Experimental College?

The Experimental College covers a wide range of topics, from traditional subjects like literature and sociology to more unconventional ones like zombies or air. The focus is on providing a space for students to explore their interests and learn from each other.

Q: How does the Experimental College address concerns about accreditation and credentials?

The Experimental College offers pass/fail courses that don't count towards majors or distribution requirements. While there may be concerns about credentials, its value lies in the diverse perspectives and knowledge students bring to the courses, rather than formal qualifications.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• Robyn Gittleman shares her experience as the leader of the Experimental College at Tufts University, where students have the opportunity to create and teach their own courses that reflect current interests and events.

• She highlights the importance of peer learning and giving students the space to discuss and engage with each other, rather than relying solely on traditional lecture-style teaching.

• Gittleman discusses the role of the Experimental College in promoting character development and trust among students, and how it complements the traditional curriculum by focusing on subjects that may not be covered in depth.