 |
Cooperative learning occurs when small groups of students work together to maximize learning. Since the first research study in 1898, hundreds of cooperative learning studies have been conducted. Research clearly indicates that cooperation, compared with competitive and individual learning, results in:
- Higher achievement and greater productivity
- More caring, supportive, and committed relationships
- Greater psychological health, social competence, and self-esteem
One of the strongest research findings is that cooperative learning increases positive relationships among different ethnic groups, as well as among students with learning disabilities and their peers.
The essential components of cooperative learning are the following:
- Positive interdependence (each student's success is tied to the success of the group)
- Face-to-face interaction (student interactions promote each other's success)
- Individual and group accountability
- Interpersonal and small group skills
- Group processing
- Regular introduction and review of cooperative learning's essential elements
|
