The World Café method and spaces dedicated to active teaching & learning: A dynamic combo that motivates students for biosciences learning

Abstract

A pilot experiment was developed in a Biomedical Sciences curricular unit to test how using a different knowledge-sharing method (World Café) in a Space for Active Learning and Teaching would affect students’ engagement. Each working group was asked to prepare a poster summarising a different topic about the physiology of the oocyte. On the activity day, rotating discussion sessions moderated by tutors took place, with groups answering different questions to deepen their knowledge. Students appreciated the dynamic and supportive environment that reduced anxiety while fostering knowledge-sharing. They also mentioned they prefer this method to traditional lectures and credited modern facilities for increasing their motivation to learn. We recommend the World Café method for improving collaborative work skills and learning in biomedical education. This study also highlights the need for institutions to provide up-to-date infrastructures, as this appears to have a direct impact on students’ engagement.