University of Minnesota
"Active learning engages students in the process of learning through activities and/or discussion in class, as opposed to passively listening to an expert. It emphasizes high-order thinking and often involves group work." Freeman, et al., 2004.
Source: Freeman, S., Eddy, S.L., McDonough, M., Smith, M.K., Okoroafor, N., Jordt, H., and Wenderoth, M.P. (2014). Active learning increases student performance in science, engineering, and mathematics. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences USA 111, 8410-8415.
“Instructional activities involving students in doing things and thinking about what they are doing” (Bonwell and Eison, 1991).
Source; Bonwell, C. C., and Eison, J.A. (1991). Active learning: creating excitement in the classroom. ASH#-ERIC Higher Education Report No. 1, Washington, D.C.: The George Washington University, School of Education and Human Development.
Here are some links to other colleges and universities "active learning" information and ideas for implementation.
Click on BOOKS on the Faculty Development : Teaching and Learning Resource Guide.