Structured Active In-class Learning (SAIL)
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Structured Active In-class Learning (SAIL)
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Structured Active In-class Learning (SAIL)
01
Mar’22
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Structured, Active, In-class Learning (SAIL)
is one of many ways to incorporate active learning into your classroom. It provides structured, in-class activities that encourage students to learn through the direct application of course ideas and material—
often the most difficult part of learning—with guidance from their instructors, as well as help from peers
Preparing to Teach a SAIL Class at Penn
Using in-class time for students to engage actively with the material is the essence of SAIL. To prepare students for that work, instructors in a SAIL class often ask students to master some content before coming to class.  This approach can be incorporated in a variety of ways—whether it is through one SAIL assignment, one class, or the whole semester.
Evidence suggests that, if done well, this method of teaching can improve learning for students of all ability and preparation levels. Doing this well, however, requires
planning the structured in-class exercises
determining how to guide students' work with those activities effectively
, and, in some courses, transferring some content knowledge to students outside of class.
CETLI offers ample resources to support instructors interested in using SAIL in some capacity in their teaching. In addition to
SAIL consultations
, CETLI often hosts faculty discussions and seminars on SAIL teaching. See the
CETLI events page
for more information. Instructors can also have their TAs or LAs take part in the
CETLI SAIL TA Training
program.
While instructors can incorporate SAIL practices into their course in a variety of classroom spaces, Penn also has a limited number of classrooms designed specifically for structured, active learning. To request a SAIL classroom, please ask your department coordinator to submit the
SAIL Classroom Request Form
Basics of a SAIL Class
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Planning In-class Activities
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Running In-class Activities
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Assessment and Grading
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SAIL
Overview
Basics of a SAIL Class
Planning In-Class SAIL Activities
Running In-Class SAIL Activities
Assessment and Grading in SAIL Classes
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