NMC Awarded $65,000 Active Learning Classroom Grant

Nebraska Methodist College has been selected to receive the installation of an active learning classroom through the Active Learning Center (ALC) program, a grant initiative in its third year founded by Steelcase Education. The grant program supports both teachers and students by creating an environment that encourages engagement, collaboration and creativity.

With the installation of a classroom valued at $65,000, Nebraska Methodist College will positively impact teaching and support pedagogies for students eager to learn. Each room includes modern movable furniture, design, onsite training, installation and a pre- and post-occupancy measurement tool.

“Nebraska Methodist College was chosen because of a demonstrated commitment to active learning,” said Craig Wilson, Director of Market Development for Steelcase Education.  “Research shows that space impacts behavior, and these classrooms will help a new group of instructors and students explore the learning possibilities an interactive space can bring.”

In addition to receiving a new classroom, Nebraska Methodist College will receive training from Steelcase on the uses of the furniture in their new spaces, and will also have the opportunity to share insights and best practices with other awarded schools. Over the two-year program, Steelcase Education and Nebraska Methodist College will partner together to conduct assessments and research on the impact of the newly designed space.

“We are so excited to be recognized by the Active Learning Center Grant for our efforts in promoting personalized, engaged learning with our students,” said Deb Carlson, Ph.D., Executive Vice President of Nebraska Methodist College. “With Steelcase Education’s support, we will continue this mission and foster better collaborations between students and instructors in the classroom.”

Along with Nebraska Methodist College, 14 other schools and universities out of over 900 applications were chosen for their unique approaches to active learning.