Mosaic Initiative

Campus:

IU Bloomington

Susan Siena is a full-time lecturer in national and international affairs at SPEA. As a Mosaic Fellow she is researching how active learning techniques can foster a lifelong habit of relying on a diverse range of quality news outlets. She is also documenting how active learning techniques can be applied in both active learning classrooms and in traditional classrooms.

Susan's current research

Susan's research investigates whether the use of active learning strategies can influence students' attitudes and habits regarding acquisition of information about current events. The survey data collected show increased interest in current events during the semester. This increased interest persists after the class has concluded. Students report that they enjoy the social interaction involved in small group discussion of current events. Survey data shows that students believe active learning practices contribute to the development of enhanced media literacy skills and greater awareness of differing political perspectives.