Learning activities: examples aligned to the Southern Cross Model
Learning activities guide students and provide them with the opportunity to process, integrate and understand unit materials (e.g. watch video, listen to podcast, read article). The following example activities are categorised into the tenet of best practice unit design that best characterises them. Whatever activity you choose should relate directly to the previous content. Ideally, all activities should include built-in responsive feedback.
Activities that are media-rich
These activities integrate multimedia sources in meaningful ways to enhance understanding and engage students.
Reading activity
A reading activity can include provides stimulus questions or points of focus to guide students and a link to an online reading or to myReadings. In this example, basic instruction is provided, the full reference of the reading with a URL link and a reflection question to stimulate student interest.
Video activity
A video activity can provide real-world examples and explain ideas in visual ways. In this activity, students reflect on the practices covered in the video and post a response to the discussion board.
Activities that guide students through the curriculum
These activities support student exploration of module objectives, helps them to develop and apply skills and prepare students for assessment.
Experiment activity
An opportunity for students to test a theory or concept in a practical real-world manner. This could involve field trips, analysing laboratory results or conducting research.
Reflection activity
A reflection activity is a stand-alone activity that enables the student to observe, take action and then respond. Reflection activities are best used towards the end of a module where students are ready to reflect on what they have learned and construct a personal response.
Activities that are interactive and responsive
These activities provide opportunities for active learning, ask students to interact, and provide responsive feedback so that students know they are on track.
Practice activity
This activity could include a problem, a series of exercises, quiz questions or a case study where students are able to apply what they have learned. Ensure that responsive feedback is provided to students. The following examples were developed in H5P, but you could use the Blackboard quiz tool or a workbook created in MS Word.
Activities that contribute towards a community of inquiry
These activities provide opportunities for student interaction and community-building, leading to enhanced satisfaction, engagement, belonging and persistence. Read more about the Community of Inquiry Framework.
Discussion activity
In a discussion activity, students personally reflect or think about concepts or ideas, and then post a response on the discussion board. Ensure that you provide clear direction for students to successfully complete this activity.
