In the traditional higher education model, college courses are typically allotted a specific amount of class time, often spanning several hours per week. However, an emerging perspective in education challenges the notion that every minute of scheduled class time needs to be filled. In this article, we explore the reasons why it may not be necessary to hold students in a classroom for the entire scheduled duration of college-level courses.
Quality Over Quantity: The focus should be on the quality of instruction rather than the quantity of time spent in class. Effective teaching doesn’t always require a full class period.
Active Learning: Active learning strategies, such as group discussions, problem-solving, and hands-on activities, can be more engaging and impactful than passive lecture-style teaching. These activities may not require the entire class duration.
Diminishing Returns: Research suggests that student attention and retention tend to decline after a certain point within a lengthy class. Keeping students for the entire duration may result in diminishing returns.
Flexibility: Allowing flexibility in class duration can accommodate different teaching styles and adapt to students’ needs. In some cases, shorter, focused sessions may be more effective.
Adult Learning Principles: Adult learners, common in higher education, benefit from self-directed learning. Giving them control over their time can enhance motivation and engagement.
Technology Integration: Modern technology allows for flipped classrooms, where students consume course content outside of class. This frees up in-class time for interactive discussions and activities.
Respect for Attention Span: Recognizing that attention spans vary among individuals, educators can embrace shorter, focused class sessions to maximize student engagement.
Efficient Use of Resources: Reduced class time can lead to cost savings for institutions, potentially allowing for investment in other educational resources and initiatives.
Real-World Preparedness: Mimicking the real-world work environment, where meetings and tasks vary in duration, can better prepare students for their future careers.
Student-Centric Approach: Prioritizing students’ needs and learning outcomes over fixed class schedules aligns with a student-centric approach to education.
In conclusion, reevaluating the need to occupy every scheduled minute of college-level courses is a progressive step in modern higher education. It shifts the focus from time spent in class to the quality and effectiveness of instruction. By embracing flexibility, active learning, and technology integration, educators can create a more engaging and efficient learning environment that better serves the needs of both students and institutions. Ultimately, the goal is to maximize learning outcomes and prepare students for success in their academic and professional journeys.
Matt Marino, in his capacity as an adjunct professor, has taught coursework in Information Technology, Business and Professional Communication, Management Information Systems, Technology, Web Development, Python Programming, Database Systems, Small Business Management, and Principles of Management. Mr. Marino’s experiences have led to him teaching at Monmouth University, Ocean County College, Bowling Green State University, Seton Hall University, and Rowan University since January 2016. Marino has taught courses in all modalities: face-to-face, hybrid, and online.
When he is not teaching Mr. Marino likes to try to advance scholarly content within the various fields of education, which led to the creation of this website.