5.8 COOPERATIVE LEARNING

Cooperative learning takes many forms within classrooms. Its essential characteristic is that it fosters positive interdependence by teaching students to work and learn together in a small-group setting. Traditional cooperative learning groups consist of three to four students who work on an assignment or project together in such a way that each group member contributes to the learning process and then learns all the basic concepts being taught. Both individual students and the group as a whole are held accountable for the outcome. Cooperative learning provides unique learning experiences for students and offers an alternative to competitive models of education. It is especially beneficial to students who learn best through social or group learning processes. It offers opportunities for students to learn through speaking and listening processes (oral language) as well as through reading and writing processes (written language)

Cooperative learning offers many benefits for students, it improves both academic learning and social skills; for teachers, it is an aid to classroom management and instruction.

Cooperative learning enhances students' enthusiasm for learning and their determination to achieve academic success.

has been shown to increase the academic achievement of udents of all ability levels in reading, writing, mathematics omputation and application, comprehension, and critical anking Time on task and engagement increase in operative learning settings, because each student is a ecessary part of the whole group's success.

Cooperative learning teaches social as well as academic als For learning groups to be effective, students must learn to honor and respect one another's differences, to support one another through learning processes, to communicate effectively with one another, and to come to a consensus or understanding when needed. Thus cooperative learning provides valuable training in skills needed to become effective citizens, to engage in group problem solving, and to attain and keep employment. Cooperative learning has been shown to improve interpersonal relations and strengthen conflict resolution skills. It improves students' emotional well-being, self-esteem, coping skills, and attitudes towards school work. Students engaged in cooperative learning experiences have been able to identify an increase in their own knowledge and self-esteem. Trust of peers, and problem-solving and communication skills.

Cooperative learning provides exciting learning opportunities across content areas. Students can work in cooperative groups to research topics, write reports, and plan and implement class discussions, debates, and panels. Students can also use cooperative groups to read materials, write summaries, find specific information, and answer questions. They can work together to study for tests memorize information, and articulate concepts. Students can receive feed-back and editing assistance from peers. They can engage in hands-on projects, experiments, and practical applications. They can design and implement school and community service projects.