Using Student-Led Discussions and Snapshot Lectures to Stimulate Active Learning and Accountability: A Mixed Methods Study on Teaching an Implementation Science Course

Abstract

We theorized that integrating student-led class activities would foster accountability and active learning in a graduate-level public health implementation science course. We used mixed methods to collect students’ feedback about two active-learning teaching techniques, wherein students were randomly selected to lead class discussions and deliver short, informal “snapshot” lectures. Students reported that both activities encouraged student initiative, engagement with the material, and completion of the assigned readings. However, students thought that the student-led discussions were more enjoyable, made the course more interesting, and contributed more to their learning. These techniques can stimulate active learning and student accountability in public health courses.