Team-based learning (TBL) is a very highly structured form of group learning. It has two major phases: 1) the Readiness Assurance Process and 2) the Application Activities.
Readiness Assurance Process
Students engage individually with content prior to coming to class
Once in class, students show their readiness by taking an individual readiness assurance test (called the iRAT for short).
After the iRAT is complete, students work with their team to complete the same set of questions together. This process, called the tRAT is completed using a form that allows immediate feedback (often an IF-AT card).
Teams are allowed a short period of time to write an appeal for missed questions.
Using the iRAT and tRAT responses, instructors can then do a mini lecture to address common areas of confusion.
Application Activities
The majority of class time is then spent engaging in authentic problem solving. In TBL, this problem-solving is highly structured by the 4S Framework. The 4Ss stand for: Significant Problem, Same Problem, Specific Choice and Simultaneous Report.
Take a TBL deep dive with Rachel in this vodcast:
The Team-Based Learning Collaborative provides a great deal of support and resources for members. This Introduction to TBL document was provided by the Collaborative.