In an attempt to improve student learning, I incorporate active learning techniques into my classes, including group work, POGIL (process-oriented guided-inquiry learning) activities, discussion boards and personal response devices (or “clickers”). My research involves assessment of the effectiveness of these methods with respect to student learning. The assessment techniques include analysis of in-class and exam questions and surveys that measure levels of student engagement and learning gains. The effectiveness of the active-learning techniques is investigated as a function of several variables, such as gender, ethnicity, student learning style, class size and class year.