Poster 4:

Active Learning Artifacts as Catalysts for Peer Interaction and Classroom Community: A Case Study

Kevin Dietsche (University of Wisconsin-Stout, USA)

Active learning approaches such as peer instruction and collaborative making are known to enhance engagement, yet their role in fostering classroom community is less frequently examined. This poster explores how student-created artifacts—projects students design, build, and keep—function as focal points for peer discussion, reflection, and shared learning. Drawing on case examples from engineering and manufacturing technology courses, the poster highlights how artifacts support student interaction, confidence, and persistence while surfacing common implementation barriers. Visual examples and concise findings invite dialogue around practical strategies for using active learning artifacts to strengthen both learning and community.