Get the students off their chairs and ask them to do quick, street surveys in relation to the lesson.
Details
Professor: Dr. Philip Paje
Subject: Asia Pacific Studies
Intended Learning Outcome: Ask the students to conduct a street survey by visiting areas around the campus and other nearby areas along Pearl Drive.
Feedback and Comments
- Dr. Paje shared that he also has eureka moments when listening to the survey results, so he knows now that he should be ready to be surprised with some answers or for some answers not to match his expectations – in a good way! He also particularly likes this activity because you can apply different communication skills at once (e.g., introducing oneself, asking questions effectively, probing effectively, etc.)
- Students say this is a new, interactive, and fun experience for them.
- This design pattern can be extended into a video project, where students need to film their survey respondents (with consent).
- This is best done face-to-face so that students can have live interactions with those they survey.
Dr. Paje’s Suggestions
- Use this especially when students are falling asleep or when you feel like they need to get out of the classroom, as well as to break the monotony.
- Craft survey questions in a way that brings out different perceptions and perspectives (e.g., open ended questions).
- Be strict about the survey time (i.e., the students should be back in the classroom by a certain time).
- Surveys can be done individually or by group, depending on class size.
U.N.I.T.A.S. Design Principles demonstrated in this design pattern
| Understands the learner | This activity takes into consideration the energy levels of the students and gives them an opportunity to practice their communication skills. |
| Nurtures student well-being | This activity takes into consideration the energy levels of the students and gives them time to get off their chairs and walk around. |
| Inspires curiosity and self-development | The answers to the surveys can expose the students to different perspectives and insights. |
| Thoughtfully done | • The survey questions themselves have to be well made. • This activity is well-prepared and has a clear flow of what the students will do and how it will be integrated into the lesson. |
| Achieves learning goals | The survey results can validate or test textbook knowledge. |
| Systematically reviews and improves the learning experience | The professor can use the insights gained through the surveys for future class activities and lectures. |
