In class, time constraints are a major barrier to using active learning strategies. Instructors are often concerned that using active learning in the classroom will reduce the amount of information that can be covered in a given course.
Teachers may be resistant to use active learning because of the amount of time needed to prepare for the activities. Regardless of the level of the students, the instructor is ultimately responsible for making sure the appropriate materials are available for class activities. If teachers plan to offer online access or email feedback, they will be required to spend time uploading course materials and replying to student inquiries. Grading active learning assignments is also more time consuming than grading objective exams.
Some active learning strategies may require financial investment. Using interactive technology in the classroom requires specific hardware, software and support that may not be available to all teachers. Hands-on assignments may require materials that the teacher or students must provide at their own cost.
Instructors often fear that active learning strategies will not lead to student assimilation of information. Students may not perceive the concepts without direct instruction. Furthermore, without objective examinations, teachers may have difficulty showing student mastery of coursework. Gathering evidence of student outcomes from active learning requires additional time and effort on the part of the instructor. Rubrics and point systems are typically used to convert active learning assignments into letter grades.
Students who are accustomed to passive participation in a classroom may resist having to actively engage in group projects or discussion. Instructors may fear the lack of student participation will cause active learning strategies to fail. Teachers may resist learning new teaching techniques and prefer to fall back on a comfortable lecture and test format. Resistance may also come from colleagues who expect instructors to follow the same methods as everyone else.