Cooperative Learning

There were many articles that I read on cooperative learning that allowed me to earn a better understanding of the learning process. One of the articles discussed the three ways students interact with each other which are that they can compete, work individualistically, and that they can work cooperatively. This article states "In a cooperative learning situation, interaction is characterized by positive goal interdependence with individual accountability." This is an excellent way for students to work together towards a common goal and the realization that they are responsible for their work and will be graded accordingly. The article "Why Use Cooperative Learning", outlined the advantages of using cooperative learning. They were:

• Academic Achievement
• Mixed groups earn better understanding of material 
• Best effects when groups are recognized/rewarded
• Better on tests (Reasoning and Cooperative thinking skills)
• Motivation and Retention
• Active participation in learning process
• More self esteem
• Are more likely to make friends
• Like the subject better
• Project Scope
• Conserve materials by working in groups
• Opportunities for students to engage in more substantial projects
• Learn Life Skills
• Jobs/Projects require division of labor and ability to communicate

One other article, "The Many Faces of Inductive Teaching and Learning" discussed a study that showed the effectiveness of different teaching methods which are inquiry-based learning, problem-based learning, project-based learning, case-based teaching, discovery learning, and just-in-time teaching. This was an interesting article that introduced inductive teaching to me. Inductive teaching methods introduce a challenge to the student, and the student then learns what they need to know to address the challenge. I found all the articles to be extremely helpful and I will incorporate these methods into my future teachings.