Student, alumni and employer satisfaction to a collaborative learning approach

A teaching methodology called hyperlearning is used in the Colleges of Software Engineering, Multimedia and Design at the University of Advancing Computer Technology, AZ, USA. It is used to increase knowledge retention, foster team building and problem solving skills, and develop creative thinking and leadership skills in an industry-oriented environment. Hyperlearning embodies five learning methods: lecture, instructor-led tutorials, self-directed tutorials, group recollection and student teachback. Student, alumni and employer satisfaction with this approach is systematically sampled. Students rated the instructor's ability to maintain the student's attention, the incorporation of current technology into the course and that labs and assignments help develop student knowledge. Students that just graduated rated their satisfaction with their courses. Employers of the University's graduates rated the student's teamwork skills, leadership skills, problem solving ability and adaptability to change. The feedback is used to determine faculty training, and course development. This paper describes a systemic approach to active/collaborative learning and the satisfaction levels of students, alumni and employers. The approach is broad: University-wide data are used to drive ongoing improvement.