AP Psychology students are discovering new ways to engage with their material through hands-on activities in teacher Tim Johanne’s class. The classroom environment has shifted toward more interactive learning techniques, from building neurons out of natural materials to creating brain caps. 

Johannes believes incorporating fun into education helps students process information better. 

“I think it’s good to learn some but also have some fun,” Johannes said. “We go outside sometimes, and we did a nature neuron; we made a neuron out of things nature gave us, and that was fun. Little creative stuff as well, and they described it and worked through it a little bit. When we do the activities, it gives the kids a break from just learning more and more information, just gives them a little break to process and to have fun, and to giggle and laugh, and things that kid needs to be able to do still.”

The interactive activities have positively impacted students like junior Zarin Murshed, who finds them both enjoyable and effective. 

“I enjoy the interactive activities we do, and I also love Mr. J. He’s always energetic and passionate about what he teaches, and I really like that part,” Murshed said. I think they [the activities] do [help] because they’re very engaging. They give more of a visual representation of what we are learning, so I’d say they’re really helpful”