Effect of Active Learning Techniques on Student Excitement, Interest, and Self-Efficacy

What is the impact of active learning techniques on student excitement, interest, and self-efficacy in a course? An American Foreign Policy and National Security course was designed around the utilization of a number of active learning techniques, including simulations, a debate, and counterfactual analysis. Students in the course were surveyed about their feelings of excitement toward the course, interest in course material, and feelings that they could do well in the course as a result of each aspect of course design. Results of the surveys reveal that the active learning techniques did indeed increase students’ excitement, interest, and self-efficacy, suggesting that courses utilizing course designs centered on student engagement and enjoyment could bolster students’ overall learning in courses.