Active learning is a process that puts students at the centre by using different teaching methods. It focuses more on how students learn, rather than what they learn. Active learning refers to a wide range of teaching strategies that involve students as active participants in their own learning during class time. 
The University of Padova developed a programme for professors to learn and implement Active Learning, to promote participatory teaching and exchange good practices and experiences. The project is called Teaching4Learning (T4L) - if you want to know more click here.