SCALE-UP Implementation and Intra-Institutional Dissemination: A Case Study of Two Institutions

Abstract

Much time, money and effort has been spent developing innovative teaching methods that have been shown to improve student learning in college classes. Although these have had some influence on mainstream teaching, many have failed to bring about widespread transformation. This exploratory case study examines the intra-institutional diffusion of the SCALE-UP (Student-Centered Active Learning Environment with Upside-Down Pedagogies) reform [1]. We interviewed key contact people at two, large, public institutions where SCALE-UP has spread in multiple departments. Our preliminary findings indicate that broad adoption is facilitated by faculty-administrative partnership, interdisciplinary reform efforts and redesigned classrooms that raise visibility.