- Technology-Enabled Active Learning (TEAL) is a teaching format that merges facilitated discussions, simulations, and hands-on desktop experiments to create a rich collaborative learning experience
- UC Merced boasts 4 TEAL labs: two 35-seat labs and two 90-seat labs.
- These spaces offer a different learning environment from other instructional classrooms on campus through design, layout, technology, and choices available to the instructor.
HOW IS TEAL DIFFERENT?
- Room and AV design focused on collaborative and applied learning tasks
- There is no front or back of the room; large rectangular 9-student work tables are placed along the outside walls
- Each station has connectivity for laptops, tablets, and document cameras
- Layout allows small group work on course curriculum, comprehension, and problem solving
- Instructors can have the class focus on one group's work, or transfer focus between groups
PURPOSE
TEAL instructional spaces are made to promote active learning using technology and space design
HOW CAN FACULTY REQUEST TO HAVE A COURSE ASSIGNED TO THE TEAL LAB?
TEAL Labs are assigned for instruction only and since they are not general assignment classrooms, there are TEAL Lab Requirements which outline the criteria for instructional use and priority assignment. Due to the time required to evaluate and complete several tasks needed to reserve the rooms, all TEAL requests must be submitted a minimum of two weeks in advance.
The TEAL Lab is assigned for instruction only and since it is not a standard classroom, there is a TEAL Lab Guideline document which outlines the criteria for instructional use and priority assignment. An application must be submitted to request use of the TEAL Lab. Applications for course and single use during a term can be submitted by completing a TEAL Request Form.
WHAT RESOURCES ARE AVAILABLE FOR INSTRUCTORS TO LEARN ABOUT TEAL?
- Tours of the TEAL Lab can be arranged by contacting AET at aet@ucmerced.edu
- TEAL-specific course design training and TEAL active learning strategy workshops are available by requesting a TEAL Active Learning Consult.
- Instructional Designers from the Teaching Commons have created a webpage of Active Learning Strategies for TEAL Instructional Spaces.
- Using TEAL Lab technology consults are required for all first time users can be scheduled through our consult schedule service: http://ucm.edu/v/AETConsults.
WHAT ELSE SHOULD I KNOW ABOUT THE TEAL SPACES?
Instructors using TEAL spaces are required to conduct assessment/research related to the effectiveness of the environment in enhancing active learning and student success. For more information and design assistance, please contact Joan Holmquist at jholmquist@ucmerced.edu
