This benchmark illustrates how often students are required to work with others inside and outside the classroom. This includes student group projects and making a class presentation. Working with others and presenting information to the class teaches students how to work through a difficult situation and how to master a difficult subject. The results from the NSSE show a dramatic increase in the amount of active and collaborative learning during a student's Hampden-Sydney College experience, and that our seniors rate the degree of active and collaborative learning that takes place as higher than at other schools.

NSSE Active and Collaborative Learning

Summary:  First-year Hampden-Sydney students are on par with students at all the NSSE respondent schools but slightly below the other baccalaureate granting colleges in the degree to which they engage in active and collaborative learning. However, as seniors Hampden-Sydney students rate their degree of active and collaborative learning higher than do those students from both of the comparison groups, and statistically significantly so when compared to the total NSSE comparison group.  

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Active and Collaborative Learning survey

NSSE survey items that assess Active and Collaborative Learning:

  • Asked questions in class or contributed to class discussions.
  • Made a class presentation.
  • Worked with other students on projects during class.
  • Worked with classmates outside of class to prepare class assignments.
  • Tutored or taught other students.
  • Participated in a community-based project as part of a regular course.
  • Discussed ideas from your readings or classes with others outside of class (students, family members, co-workers, etc.)