When students are presented with authentic, challenging, and multidisciplinary tasks and allowed to explore a subject from their own particular point of view, they grasp the subject matter better. Today's computer and telecommunications technologies are powerful tools that can be used to support engaged learning. In fact, the very nature of Connected Learning Communities provides constant opportunities for active participation in learning. The teacher is a facilitator in learning. Learning tasks are authentic, challenging, and multidisciplinary.
Students participate in interactive modes of instruction.
Students learn through exploration. Students work collaboratively. Students are grouped heterogeneously. Assessments are based on students' performances of real tasks. Teachers in engaged learning classrooms serve as facilitators of learning.