Cooperative Learning
COOPERATIVE LEARNING
WHAT IS IT?
Cooperative Learning is a teaching method based on the principle of pupils working together in small groups to achieve shared academic and social goals.
Cooperative learning activities incorporate '5 Basic Elements'...
1) Positive Interdependence
All members must achieve the set goals for the group to succeed.
2) Individual Accountability
Pupils are responsible for demonstrating their own learning.
3) Group Processing
Groups evaluate their strengths and areas for improvement.
4) Social Skills (e.g. active listening, no put downs)
These are taught and practised during the task.
5) Face-to-Face Interaction
WHY IS IT USED?
It is one of the most highly researched areas in education and much of this has focussed on the benefits for students. Some of the most important reasons why it is used are that it...
- increases academic attainment.
- develops and improves social and collaborative skills.
- promotes a better attitude towards school.
Cooperative Learning is also recognised as one of the ways in which to deliver 'A Curriculum for Excellence.
WHEN & WHERE IS IT USED
Cooperative Learning is one of a number of different teaching methods pupils experience in Alva Academy. Teachers will use it in topics or lessons where they feel it is the most appropriate and effective method for the content being covered. Pupils can experience cooperative learning in any subject area at any time.
HOW IT WORKS
There is a huge range of cooperative learning activities, each serving a particular function e.g. information sharing or testing understanding. Some common activities pupils carry out are...
JIGSAW
Individual pupils/small groups become experts in a specific area. They learn the information then teach it to others in their group/class.
THINK, PAIR, SHARE
This is used as a way of questioning pupils or giving them the opportunity to share their thoughts on something.
STRUCTURED SORT
Pupils are given a list of items which they have to sort based on criteria.
IF YOU WOULD LIKE ANY MORE INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT L.RUSSELL
Contact information
For further information about this page please contact:
Mrs L Russell
Principal Teacher Cooperative Learning
Alva Academy
Academy Avenue
Alva
FK12 5DY
Tel: 01259 760342
Email: alva@edu.clacks.gov.uk
Or use the on-line contact form.