Welcome to Active Learning Space
This approach is closely tied to evidence-based research, such as the work of Jean Piaget’s developmental stages of learners. It views the child’s development holistically, including not only motor, cognitive, and sensory skills, but also social and emotional development.
What type of learner benefits from an Active Learning approach?
The Active Learning approach can be used in conjunction with other approaches, such as the work of Dr. Jan van Dijk. Though initially this approach was designed for individuals with visual impairments and deafblindness, it has proven to be effective with individuals with other significant disabilities, such as autism and cerebral palsy.
It is an approach that can be used with all learners, but is most effective for those who have significant multiple disabilities and are functioning in the 0-48 month developmental level. The Active Learning approach can be used with individuals with various visual conditions, such as CVI (Cerebral/Cortical Visual Impairment) and ONH (Optic Nerve Hypoplasia), as well as with those who are deafblind or medically fragile.
We invite you to explore the world of Active Learning!
Introductory Video
Jack’s Progression
Watch this video to see how a boy progressed from lying prone on a Resonance Board to being upright in a HOPSA Dress to sitting independently! These videos were made over a 4 year period. The boy in this video is the same one as the news video above, in which his mother discusses what a difference Active Learning has made for her son.
Jack’s progression from passive to active learner is evident in the video. In the beginning clips Jack does not sit independently and has very little ability to move himself into different positions to explore and experiment with things around him. Over time, through his own actions, Jack builds motor and sensory skills as he becomes more engaged with the world and people. These interactions allow him to develop fundamental concepts necessary for all future learning. As he moves more vocalizations and communication skills develop. His interactions with others helps to develop critical social and emotional skills as well.
Ryland Before and After
These two short video clips illustrate how important adult expectations are and what a difference the environment makes in encouraging learning and active engagement. In the first clip a young boy lies on a swing in a supine position. His lower body is covered with a blanket. In the second clip, just a few minutes later, the blanket has been removed and Active Learning materials have been placed all around the boy. Notice the difference that expectations and appropriate materials make!Active Learning Space Flyer
We invite you to download this flyer to share with others. Download flyer in PDF format or as Word document.
Permission Forms
We welcome ideas from the field! Please contact us if you have an activity you would like to share. Download our permission form, if you would like to share a video or photo. PDF Word format