Cooperative Learning

This collection of theoretical and empirical research papers addresses the most recent advances in cooperative learning and its applications, implications, and effects on teachers and students at both the elementary and secondary levels. The central concern of the contributors is how a set of particular instruction methods affects people in classrooms and what this form of instruction contributes or fails to contribute to them. In their attempt to illuminate some of the major effects of cooperative learning methods, the contributors discuss a number of theoretical and practical issues not covered elsewhere.

This professional reference provides a broad picture of cooperative learning methods. The volume includes descriptions of the main generic methods of instruction, applications of cooperative learning to various subject-matter disciplines, and discussions of the implementation of cooperative learning in schools. The book is divided into three sections. The first, on methods, includes chapters on the fundamental strategies of cooperative learning. The second, on applications, provides practical information on the use of cooperative learning in mathematics, science, and language arts instruction. The third, on implementation, contains chapters on the creation and administration of cooperative learning programs in schools. Each chapter in this reference is written by an expert contributor and mentions current sources of additional information. Thus, the book is a comprehensive collection of practical information for all those interested in cooperative learning.

The remarkable teaching strategy of team learning is explained in this book, taking the teaching of small groups to a whole new level. Team learning's distinctive feature is its ability to transform "groups" into "teams" and use the energy from team dynamics to generate significant learning, offering teachers advantages that are not available in any other form of teaching.

Why do small group teaching styles need to be so different to those used in tutorials and lectures? How will my teaching style need to adapt? This indispensable guide for new university or college teachers brings together straightforward and practical advice on small group teaching. Written in a highly accessible jargon-free style, this book comprehensively covers critical areas such as: * the underpinning foundations and dynamics of small group teaching * the role and skills of the effective tutor * tried and tested small group teaching methods and techniques * guidance on problem-based learning, student-led and tutor-less tutorials * up-to-date advice on inclusive and non-discriminatory practice *nbsp;a review of assessment criteria and methods. The book offers much-needed support and guidance for new and part-time teachers in further and higher education, covering a wide range of teaching scenarios. It will also be critical reading for all those who wish to refresh or invigorate their teaching.

This book gives recognition to the importance of cooperative learning, in contrast to the traditional classroom, as an effective approach to learning. Its coverage of the subject ranges across the educational spectrum, from pre-school years to university, and offers a fresh perspective on a topic that has gained increasing interest worldwide. With contributions from an international panel of leading experts in the field, this engaging text succeeds in providing key insights, linking the theories that underpin the study of group dynamics to their practical application in the classroom. It presents a comprehensive overview of this alternative educative approach, illustrating how cooperative learning experiences can promote socialisation and friendships, and facilitate learning. The editors assemble a range of well-researched essays, covering such aspects as: * The importance of teacher and student interaction * Small group, virtual and non-virtual teaching environments * Assessment practices for measuring the outcomes of individual and group progress * The effect of cooperative learning on relationships amongst students with diverse cultural, social and learning needs. Illustrated with practical examples throughout, this book will be a crucial read for teacher educators, educational psychologists, student teachers, academics and researchers who wish to attain a fuller understanding of the subject and unleash the significant potential of cooperative learning in any educational setting.

The contemporary classroom presents a wealth of opportunities for social interaction amongst pupils, leading to increased interest in teachers and researchers into the social nature of learning. While classroom interaction can be a valuable tool for learning, it does not necessarily lead to useful learning experiences. Through case studies, this book highlights the use of new analytical methodologies for studying the content and patterns of children's interactions and how these contribute to their construction of knowledge. Classroom Interaction and Social Learning will be of interest to students and in service teachers and researchers concerned with classroom discourse and learning.

"An introductory group work textbook for students in social work, community work, health and welfare."

Dunn and Griggs challenge the traditional instructional process of lecture/discussion in college teaching and describe the theory, practice, and research that support a wider variety of approaches to better accommodate the learning-style preferences of each student. Twenty-five practitioners from varied backgrounds and disciplines, representing 14 colleges and universities, outline alternative strategies they use with diverse students in their instructions of higher education. Some of these practitioners have been using learning-style approaches for decades. Others have conducted research to test the various tenets of the Dunn and Dunn Learning Style Model, and a few, only for the past five years, have begun providing instructional strategies that are congruent with their students' preferences.