Activity Centers

Do you wish for your lessons to be more engaging and interactive? We realize extensive focus
on the academic side of learning often makes it challenging to sit through a lecture. Progressive
education requires that students have access to a comprehensive form of education that develops
them emotionally and academically. In this regard, we propose the inclusion of activity centers
into the learning process. Activity centers may also be referred to as interest or learning centers
and serve as a potential solution to the challenges that the education process faces.

How can learning/interest/activity centers be applied to the classroom?

Activity Center is an effective teaching tool used to enhance students' learning experience.
Activity centers are almost limitless in their form, content, and length. They can be as simple as
creating a poster or as sophisticated as a series of technology or science lab activities. It requires
the class to be divided into small groups. Each group receives clear instructions from the teacher
and focuses on a single activity. Upon completing their task, the students move to the next
activity center, where another challenge awaits them. Eventually, all students collaborate to
accomplish the tasks at every center to end a productive learning session. Activity centers are
designed to include the most effective strategies to increase students’ learning opportunities.
Furthermore, they lead a transformation in education by promoting collaboration and harmony.
The engaging and interactive experience sets students up for excellence in their personal and
professional life.

Plans for implementing Activity Centers

The challenge of adapting to a new learning process may seem daunting at first; however, the
implementation of activity centers will be conducted in phases. The gradual incorporation of
activity centers will allow students time to gain the skills required to maximize their learning. In
the initial phase, students will be introduced to activity centers with lessons being conducted in a
whole-class setting. During the instructional activities, the teacher will assist while students work
in small groups. In the second phase, students will work on two to five different activities that
occur simultaneously. The teachers will encourage collaboration amongst students while offering
their assistance. In the final phase, the role of the teacher will transition from assistance towards
supervision, with students expected to work independently. The final phase will comprise of
activities designed to channel students’ academic knowledge into practice.

Benefits of Activity Center

The effective use of activity centers can contribute to a positive learning environment. The
engaging nature of the activities ensures that students learn in a healthy and playful ambience. It
serves as an opportunity for students to put their skills and academic knowledge into practice.
Without external assistance, the students learn to work independently and assume responsibility
for their tasks. Students often complain about the lack of personalized learning in the traditional
system. Through activity centers, teachers can divide students into smaller groups allowing them
to offer support and guidance to individual students. The feedback enables students to learn
collectively. Moreover, the aspect of coordination encourages participation which develops the
social skills of students.