Cooperative learning correlates well with social learning theory because "social constructivists believe that reality is constructed through human activity" (Orey, 2010). It is the interaction between people that constructs their knowledge and alters their view of topics or issues that are addressed during their time together. By working in pairs or groups, students begin to assimilate or accommodate new ideas and sort and re-sort existing schema to fit. The social environment shapes their perception of reality.
Teachers who provide opportunities for this type of learning may see increases in student engagement and dedication. When students feel needed by their group, they are motivated to be present and engaged. This makes it more likely for them to absorb the information in a meaningful way.
Cooperative learning is a practical way to implement social learning theory by giving students ample opportunity to construct their knowledge through interaction with others.
References
Orey, M. (2010, January 1). Emerging Perspectives on Learning, Teaching, and Technology.
Retrieved November 24, 2014, from
Pitler, H., Hubbell, E. R., & Kuhn, M. (2012). Using technology with classroom instruction that
works (2nd ed.). Alexandria, VA: ASCD.
Vygotsky, L.S. (1978). Mind in Society: The Development of Higher Psychological Processes.
Cambridge, MA: Harvard University Press.
I agree that, “When students feel needed by their group, they are motivated to be present and engaged. “ In my experience with cooperative learning, students like to “show off” their skills. They work hard to contribute to their group project. When the students construct a project together, it helps them absorb new information in a way that lecturing could not accomplish. What are some ways you incorporate cooperative learning?
ReplyDeleteAt our school, there is an iPad cart with 11 iPads on it. Whenever it is used by an entire class, the teacher can offer the iPads to half the class, or pair them up. Because of this, we do a lot of pairing when we use the iPads. This is helpful because there is more chance of one of the students being able to correctly use the device, or understand the assignment. This results in less teacher-attention needed for how-to's or basic instructions. It also creates good discussion between students as they work together. The downside can be that one student monopolizes the project (and the device) but this is something that can be addressed ahead of time.
DeleteBeth,
ReplyDeleteGreat post! I enjoy walking into a classroom where cooperative learning is going on! Sure it my be noisier than a traditional classroom, but the energy the students give off is infectious. It's amazing how using something as simple as a pair-share can draw our students further into the learning process. Keep up the great work!
David
Thanks! Yes, it can be noisy. A quick walk around reveals that much of it is purposeful noise. I have heard some students complain about the noise level, especially those who struggle with distraction and trying to concentrate.
DeleteIt is so important that kids have that time to work with their peers. In my classroom it helps me to make sure that everyone is getting help. It may not come from me all the time but peer to peer assistance. This also helps them to construct that knowledge by being a part of the learning and teaching process.
ReplyDeleteYes, peer-to-peer assistance is a benefit to group learning.
DeleteI agree with you that they will absorb the information using these strategies as opposed to just having students read all of the information themselves. I think there are other strategies being utilized here, as well. The students are actually getting small "chunks" of information at a time rather that one massive chunk of information.
ReplyDelete