High Impact Educational Practices(HIPs), the importance of memorable experiences throughout one’s education, and the deployment of active learning seek to magnify the student experience. The convergence of these strategies, known as Transformational Active Learning Experiences(TALEs), has importance to the student-centered educational experience in higher education. Four recent studies of faculty, student, and industry perspectives in construction management education have yielded separate and distinct findings. Two studies centered on faculty and student perspectives of learning spaces designed for active learning. Data included 65 faculty from 55 universities and 206 students. Graduating students (N=212) were also surveyed regarding their experiences in five HIPs. Finally, representatives from industry who had completed an undergraduate degree in construction management were engaged in focus groups to gauge their most memorable and valuable educational experiences in higher education. This introductory study considers the collective results and explores congruence and divergence across sample populations using thematic analysis. Key findings include the importance of relevant and practical experiences, the potential of the educational space to enhance the experience, and the shared value of connection and engagement with others. Areas of divergence emerged in delayed realization of the value of the educational experience and the variability challenges with some activities. Key findings also included the importance of the appropriate environment and training for faculty. If synergies from HIPs, memorable experiences, and active learning could be more fully realized, the potential for improved cognition and retention of content, as well as, improved development of metacognition, interpersonal skills, and emotional intelligence exist.

Authors:
C. Ben Farrow, Auburn University, United States
Eric M. Wetzel, Auburn University, United States
Tom Leathem, Auburn University, United States

About the Presenter(s)
Ben Farrow is the Associate Dean for Academic Affairs in the College of Architecture, Design and Construction at Auburn University. Research includes learning-focused strategies and assessment to improve learning within built environment education.

Connect on Linkedin
https://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-farrow-04113a78

Connect on ResearchGate
https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Charles-Farrow-2

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