Cooperative Learning Thoughts...Week 5

     All three readings for this week supports that cooperative learning is focused both on enhancing individual learning and group learning.  The purpose is for groups to learn from each other while trying to accomplish a shared learning goal.  Cooperative learning should be a multi-faceted, fluid and interactive experience. 

     I found several important points made in Haller’s article.  He pointed out that individuals should be grouped heterogeneous in ability.  He also noted that differences in participants, such as their prior knowledge and background are important when grouping students together.  In order for cooperative learning to be effective and successful, I think it has to be “fine-tuned”, per se’.  Haller’s article discussed the interactional problems that may arise and the social dynamics to consider when grouping students in teaching sequences.  The Instructor has to have an active role in order for cooperative learning to be successful.  The Instructor should encourage students to be flexible, educate the students on the various problems that may arise within their group and provide strategies that promote team work.  I liked the strategy that Haller’s article pointed out to give students a voice within their group.  Reporting problems anonymously, by simply writing down the concern on a piece of paper and handing it to the Instructor.  This saves “face”, with hopes of the Instructor being able to rectify the problem.

     Johnson made a good analogy in his article about team work.  He referenced that “sports players are seen as individuals, not viewed for their team work.”  I had not thought of it in this aspect.  Johnson’s article also discussed several theories that are intertwined within the cooperative learning process.  He also made note that engagement is “key” and students need to have the social skills to function effectively within their group.  Often, I find that students have to be taught these necessary social skills on a daily basis.  We can’t assume that they come to us “knowing how to act.” 

     I found Millis’ article to be very helpful. It provides some good strategies for enhancing and managing cooperative learning activities. 

     I think, if executed appropriately, cooperative learning has many benefits.  Cooperative learning can empower students to assume ownership of their own learning as well as others.  One thing that I have found is that It can boost self-confidence in the struggling learner.  I began to reflect on my own experiences with cooperative learning, both as an adult learner as well as cooperative learning activities that I have organized in my class.  After reading this week’s articles, I have been able to reflect on the barriers and challenges that I have experienced in my personal and professional life.  I strongly believe that the benefits outweigh the barriers to its use.  It just requires additional time for planning and careful monitoring of the situation.  Of course, web based tools that could be used could include any that provided a course of collaboration such as Moodle, Word Press, Elluminate, and social media.  Although group work can be beneficial in an on-line learning environment, it can be more challenging than face to face opportunities.