Cooperative Learning with the Computer

Reality dictates that school face the fact that each classroom, especially in public or government schools, may not be equipped with appropriate number of computers.

Introduction

The creativity of the teacher will have to respond to the situation, and so cooperative learning will likely be the answer to the implementation of IT supported learning in our schools.

Defining Cooperative

Learning

Is learning by small groups of students who work together in a common learning task.

It is also called Group Learning.

Cooperative or Collaborative Learning

A common goal Interdependence Interaction Individual accountability Social skills

5 Elements are needed to be truly cooperative

learning:

Encourages active learning, while motivating students.

Advantages of Cooperative Learning

Increases academic performance.

Promotes literacy and language skills.

Improves teachers effectiveness.

In addition, there are studies which show that cooperative learning enhances:

1. Personal and social development among students.

2. Self- esteem3. Social relations between racially

and culturally different students.

COOPRATIVE LEARNING AND THE COMPUTER

Based on a study conducted, researchers agree that the computer is a natural learning vehicle for cooperative (at times called promotive) learning. 

Thus, it shows that when students work with computers in groups, they cluster and interact with each other for advice and mutual help. 

Moreover, given the option to work individually or in a group, the students generally wish to work together in computer-based and non-computer-based activities.

Reflecting on this, psychologists think the computer fosters this positive social behaviour because it has a display monitor – where they look something in common.

Components of cooperative learning

Educators are still wary about the computer’s role in cooperative learning. Thus they pose the position that the use of computers do not automatically result in cooperative learning. 

 There therefore assign the teacher several tasks in order to ensure collaborative learning. These are:

-Assigning students to mixed-ability teams

-Establishing positive interdependence

-Teaching cooperative social skills-Insuring individual accountability,

and-Helping groups process information

 These are in addition to assigning a common work goal in which each member of the group will realize that their group will not succeed unless everyone contributes to the groups’ success.

It is also important for the teacher limits learning group clusters (six is the ideal number in a group) so there can be closer involvement in thinking and learning.

“We all do better when we work together. Our differences do matter, but our common humanity matters more.”

― Bill Clinton

Reported By:JANET CASUNCAD