Carpe Diem: A Student Guide to Active Learning

Carpe Diem was written to transform student attitudes about their studies from those of "hourly workers" sitting in lectures and dutifully taking notes to an attitude which reflects student ownership of their education. The motivation for this book comes from compelling evidence that being an active rather than a passive learner will make a significant difference in life's successes. This book emphasizes that acquiring factual information is critically important, but knowing facts is not enough. Successful people must also acquire broad skills including writing, speaking, interpersonal skills, initiative, time management, assertiveness and reasoning ability. The specific teaching and learning techniques discussed include the discussion method, computer assisted instruction, laboratory instruction, simulation, the case method, intensive reading and writing, student journals, and cooperative learning including student affairs activities. Carpe Diem also provides the rationale for these learning techiques. In addition, it helps students develop a personal plan and connects that plan with active learning outcomes. Finally, the book offers appendices on the relevance of specific general education subjects and on how to choose a college that supports active learning.