ICAP Center for Teaching and Learning
Active learning approaches for STEMM educators
The ICAP Center for Teaching and Learning advances active learning approaches among post-secondary STEMM educators globally so that they can unlock the full potential of tomorrow’s science, technology, engineering, math and medical leaders.
Based on decades of rigorous, evidence-based research, the ICAP Center offers professional development training and resources so that educators can easily apply the evidence-based ICAP theory — which stands for Interactive, Constructive, Active and Passive modes of learning — to day-to-day instruction.
Breaking down barriers to STEMM
The ICAP Center’s focus on education in STEMM, which refers to science, technology, engineering, math and medicine, comes from a global need to prepare students for an evolving world. While some students may naturally thrive in these fields, others who have great potential struggle to persist. Applying evidence-based active learning approaches can make a difference, as recent research indicates how active learning increases student performance in science, engineering, and mathematics.
Powered by the ICAP theory
Active learning refers to the extent to which students engage cognitively with instructions while learning. These approaches can be particularly effective in supporting students' deeper understanding of complex topics, such as those in STEMM; however just because an activity seems “active” on the outside doesn’t always mean that it results in deep learning.
The evidence-based ICAP theory helps address this need for greater clarity. The theory is based on decades of research by ASU professor Michelene “Micki” Chi, a globally recognized expert in active learning who developed the ICAP theory. Through the application of the ICAP theory, educators can make incremental lesson adjustments that yield powerful active learning results.
Scaling active learning solutions
The ICAP Center is developing professional development resources for post-secondary STEMM educators globally. As more educators develop their skills in active learning, the ICAP Center will elevate and scale this collective knowledge.
Funding for the Center is made possible through the Yidan Prize project funds in recognition of ASU professor Michelene “Micki” Chi’s contributions to research through the ICAP theory. Professor Chi is the recipient of the 2023 Yidan Prize for Education Research.