STEM talk by Yuretich examines technology and team-based learning

Geosciences professor Richard Yuretich will present a STEM talk titled “Technology and Team-Based Learning (TBL) in Introductory Oceanography” on Tuesday, Dec. 4 at 4 p.m. in 138 Hasbrouck Laboratory.

Team-based learning (TBL) is an active-learning strategy that uses class time primarily for investigations conducted by formal groups kept intact for the semester. Prior research has demonstrated that TBL increases student engagement, allows for a more flexible and dynamic class environment, fosters critical thinking and analysis and elevates student performance. UMass Amherst has constructed two prototype TBL classrooms outfitted with the technology to support development of appropriate teaching methods. The features of these classrooms include round tables that accommodate nine students apiece; hard-wired laptops at each table to encourage research and presentations during class time; wall-mounted LED monitors and whiteboards for each table; and a centrally-located instructor's podium to manage the various audiovisual systems.