Cooperative LearningClassroom Instruction that Works
Chapter 7: Cooperative Learning
Robert J. Marzano
Research & Theory on Cooperative Learning
One of the most popular instructional strategies in education
1867 W.T. HarrisSt. Louis, MOAllow for rapid student promotion in
elementary grades
Research shows that organizing students into cooperative groups yields a positive
effect on overall learning. When applying cooperative learning strategies:
* keep groups small *don’t overuse this strategy
*be systematic and consistent in your approach
Five Defining Elements
Group processing
Interpersonal and small group skills
Individual and group accountability
Face-to-face interaction
Positive interdependence
Defining ElementsPositive
Interdependence A sense of sink or swim together
Face-to-face interaction = Helping each other learn, applauding success and efforts).
Individual and Group Accountability = Each of us has to contribute to the group achieving its goals.
Interpersonal & Small Group Skills = Communication, trust, leadership, decision making, and conflict resolution.
Group Processing = Reflecting on how well the team is functioning and how to function even better.
Organizing students in cooperative
learning groups has a powerful effect on
learning, regardless of whether groups
compete with one another.
Textbox
3 Guidelines for Cooperative Learning1. Organizing groups based on ability levels
should be done sparingly.
Homogenous Grouping Vs.
Heterogeneous
2. Cooperative groups should be kept rather small in size.
3. Cooperative learning should be applied consistently and systematically, but not overused.Misused: tasks given to group are
not well structuredOverused: students not given
enough time for independent practice
Using a Variety of Criteria for Grouping Student
Ideas for grouping:
AlphaComputer numbers
ColorsDeck of cards
… in conclusionOf all classroom grouping strategies, cooperative learning may be the most flexible and powerful. As the examples in this chapter illustrate, teachers can use cooperative learning in a variety of ways in many different situations.
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