Title: Unlock the potential of active learning methods to revolutionise the learning process

Authors: Elisabete S. Vieira; Cristina Peguinho

Addresses: Research Unit on Governance, Competitiveness and Public Policies (GOVCOPP), Higher Institute of Accounting and Administration, University of Aveiro (ISCA-UA), Campus Universitário de Santiago, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal ' Higher Institute of Accounting and Administration, University of Aveiro (ISCA-UA), Campus Universitário de Santiago, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal

Abstract: This paper examines the benefits of incorporating active learning methods alongside traditional passive approaches in a finance curriculum. We implemented a series of active learning strategies throughout the semester, allowing students to replace certain passive learning components in the evaluation process by engaging with these methods. Our findings indicate that active learning enhances student understanding, improves learning efficacy, builds confidence through additional practice, and contributes to greater academic success. This study adds to the existing literature by addressing a gap concerning the effects of active learning on Portuguese students. Given that current empirical evidence remains inconclusive, our results underscore the need for higher education institutions to prioritise active learning strategies as a cornerstone of long-term educational development.

Keywords: potential of active learning methods; revolutionise the learning process; learning efficacy; undergraduate education; students; Portugal.

DOI: 10.1504/IJARGE.2025.151256

International Journal of Agricultural Resources, Governance and Ecology, 2025 Vol.20 No.1, pp.24 - 37

Received: 04 Nov 2024
Accepted: 21 Jul 2025
Published online: 19 Jan 2026 *

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