3. INDEX
Sl.
No.
Content Page No.
1
Introduction
1
2
Content
2-3
3
Conclusion
4
4
References
5
4. 1
INTRODUCTION
Co-operative learning is a learning method in which students work together in
small heterogeneous groups to achieve a common academic goal. According to Johnson,
‘Co-operative learning is the instructional use of small groups through which students
work together to maximize their own and each others learning’. Shortly, co-operative
learning is a method of instruction in which students work together in small groups with
a goal of completing a specific task. In a co-operative learning environment, learners are
encouraged to be in the center of learning and learn together.
5. 2
Characteristics of co-operative Learning
The following are the important characteristics of cooperative learning
1. It always involves a small group(2-5 members) of students learn together.
2. It is a joint,pro-active,pro-social,student-centered approach.
3. It simultaneously addresses academic and social skill learning by the students.
4. There is positive interdependence among team members as they are obliged to
rely on one another to achieve their goal.
5. It involves sharing responsibility,sharing resources and working toward common
goals.
6. There is a face to face promotive interaction. Promoting success of group
members by praising,encouraging,supporting or assisting each other.
7. It ensures equal opportunities for success.
Elements of co-operative Learning
The following are the basic elements of co-operative learning.
1. Positive interdependence:The team members learn together and learning
is part and parcel of each other,they work in a small group and plan to finish a
product together.The group members perceive that they are linked with each
other in a way that one cannot succeed unless everyone succeeds .
2. Face-to-face interaction:Co-operative learning involves promotive face-to-face
interaction.Students need to do real work together in which they promote
each other’s success by sharing resources and helping,supporting,encouraging
and applauding each other’s efforts to achieve.
3. Individual accountability :Each member of the group is accountable for
sharing his knowledge with the rest of the group and for mastery of the material
to be learned.
4. Equal participation :Each member of the group is afforded equal shares of
responsibility and input.
5. Simultaneousinteraction :The class time is designed to allow many student
interactions during the period.
6. 3
6. Group processing:Group members discuss how well they are achieving their
goals and maintaining effective working relationships. Describe what member
actions are helpful and not helpful.
7. Interpersonal and small group skills:Co-operative learning teaches
students interpersonal skills like leadership,decision-making,trust-building,
communication and conflict-management skills.
Role of the teacher in co-operative learning
The teacher,obviously,plays the most important role in the co-operative
learning process.
1. The teacher determines the final grouping of students,plans tasks with very
specific outcomes in mind.
2. He determines the value point system for completion of certain
tasks,determines assessment tools and the ways in which they will be used.
3. In addition,the teacher serves,a facilitator,resource and observer during all co-operative
learning activities.
4. It is expected that the teacher will remain actively involved by circulating
among the groups for brief periods of time to facilitate,not to dominate.
5. It is the teacher who signals closure to the co-operative learning activity by
initiating sharing.
7. 4
CONCLUSION
Co-operative learning is an instructional programme in which students work in
small groups to help one another master academic content.It increases student
motivation by providing peer support and promotes higher achievement and
class attendance. It develops higher level thinking skills and self esteem in
students. Students are able to develop and practice skills such as
communication skills,self management skills, social interaction
skills,decisionmaking,leadership,trust building and conflict management. It
promotes social interactions and develops interpersonal relationships among
students.
8. 5
REFERENCES
1. Psychological Bases of Education-Dr.N.K. Arjunan
