Cooperative Learning and the Computer
When students works with computers in groups, they cluster and interact with each other for advice and mutual help.
Psychologist think that computer foster a positive social behavior. Researchers agree that the computers is a fairly natural learning vehicle for cooperative learning.
Components of Cooperative Learning
- Assigning students to mixed-ability teams;
- Establishing positive interdependence;
- Teaching cooperative social skills;
- Insuring individual accountability;and
- Helping groups process information.
Advantage of Cooperative Learning
- Encourages active learning, while motivating students;
- Increases academic performance;
- Promotes literacy and language skills; and
- Improves teacher effectiveness
Five Basic Elements of Cooperative Learning
There are five fundamental elements involved in cooperative learning. In fact, these five elements distinguish cooperative learning from other forms of group learning. These elements can be thought of as pieces in a puzzle. When all of these elements are present in a learning situation, the result is a cooperative learning group. The five basic elements of cooperative learning are:
o Positive interdependence
o Individual and group accountability
o Interpersonal and small group skills
o Face-to-face promotive interaction
o Group processing
http://tutorials.istudy.psu.edu/cooperativelearning/cooperativelearning4.html
It is a successful teaching strategy in which small teams, each with students of different levels of ability, use a variety of learning activities to improve their understanding of a subject. Each member of a team is responsible not only for learning what is taught but also for helping teammates learn, thus creating an atmosphere of achievement. Documented results include improved academic achievement, improved behavior and attendance, increased self-confidence and motivation, and increased liking of school and classmates. Cooperative learning is also relatively easy to implement and is inexpensive.
