Developing cooperative learning and TV-like quizzes to improve students' motivation in higher education

Abstract

In this work, we present an instructional methodology which combines the use of Cooperative Learning (CL) and Team Game Tournaments (TGT) for the design of motivating learning activities in higher education. It was proposed as an alternative to the traditional instructional method for theoretical lectures based on a unidirectional transmission of information from the professor to students with minimum interaction. This traditional methodology is in general monotonous and discouraging for students. However, neuroscience and pedagogical studies suggest the importance of generating emotion and motivation for students to achieve better comprehension and more significant learning. Following the steps defined by the action-research in the educational context, we have elaborated an action plan which includes the design of learning activities based on active methodologies with an appealing format for students with the objective of improving their motivation and involvement for the theoretical content of the subjects. We have also gathered some evidence based on the students' opinions and performance to assess the impact of the methodology. These results show positive signs about the impact of this variation in the instructional methodology as students feel more motivated and excited when they learn from this type of activities.