This article by Kimberly Lightle, provides a concise overview explaining what cooperative learning is, common types, why teachers should incorporate these strategies into their practice, and how to do it.
In cooperative groups students learn how to work as a team. Ms. Lightle suggests that five key elements are necessary for small-group learning to be successful.
1.positive interdependence – each group member has a specific role and responsibilities in the joint effort
2.face-to-face interaction – students discuss, share knowledge, make connections, and check comprehension
3.individual and group accountability- the smaller the group the more accountable the individuals are, observe student contributions, have students teach what they’ve learned to others
4.interpersonal and small-group skills- it’s important for the teacher to establish ‘group rules’ with the students (ex., develop social skills such as decision making, communication)
5.group processing- group members need to reflect on their working relationships
There are a great number of learning strategies to utilize depending on the needs of the teacher. They vary in structure, size of group, reward systems, and member responsibility. I appreciated the easy to follow instructions on how to set up “expert groups” by using the “Jigsaw ” teaching strategy and the web sites provided more information.
I look forward to applying some of the cooperative learning strategies suggested in the article and am curious to see if, as the author states ,”cooperative learning brings positive results, such as deeper understanding of content, increased overall achievement in grades, improved self-esteem, and higher motivation to stay on task”.
Branching out- 