Learning Principles and Practices

Learning science research has identified a number of principles that can guide the selection of pedagogies and technologies to support successful learning. The EDUCAUSE Learning Initiative (ELI) emphasizes those principles, but goes a step farther by linking them to practices that work.

ELI also recognizes that each institution is unique. Therefore, we avoid "one-size-fits-all" approaches. Instead, we focus on practices that work for multiple institutions and institutional types, specifically, practices that institutions can successfully adapt to their unique needs and circumstances.

Current Topics

IT Assessment

IT's potential to transform teaching and learning is realized through assessment. Evidence is critical to teaching and learning to gauge improvement, accountability, and so forth. Many ways exist to accumulate useful evidence (assessment, evaluation, e-portfolios), but asking appropriate questions and matching assessment strategies to them are prerequisites to obtaining good information. Accumulating evidence is one step in improving teaching and learning with technology; it must be linked to improvement strategies and changes in practice to be effective. Learn More>>

Interaction and Engagement

Active learning is emphasized in contemporary learning theory, which finds that interaction leads to greater student engagement, retention, and competence. Colleges and universities are developing innovative combinations of technology and pedagogy that make learning more interactive. The results of their efforts indicate that student learning and engagement improve as interactivity increases. Learn More>>

Learning Space Design

The design of learning spaces--whether a classroom, a laboratory, a library, or an informal space--can enhance learning. The design of learning spaces goes beyond the physical to include the virtual. Learning spaces have fundamentally changed as educators have integrated communication, collaboration, and computing capabilities. Learn More>>

Successful Learning

Teaching does not necessarily result in learning. We know students differ in learning styles and characteristics. How can colleges and universities ensure that learning is successful? Institutions are experimenting with alternatives designed to enhance successful learning, reexamining the fundamental question of what it means to be educated in the 21st century, and restructuring programs to meet future needs. Learn More>>