I finally began my research for this project and yes I waited till the very end to do it. My question when I began my research was this: Does group work enhance science learning? I started searching 'group work in science' which didn't turn up much. Once I started delving deeper into my findings I found a lot of information on collaborative and cooperative learning. I finally came up with a new question that has been researched to a great extent. My new question is: Does cooperative learning enhance science learning? In my first blog I will define both and give a quick overview of the topic. Later on I will relate cooperative learning to science.
Collaborative learning entails students working together and is used more often in higher education. This could be working together on homework, projects, or studying together for an exam. Cooperative learning is used more often in K-12 education and exists when students work together in small groups on structured projects.
Through research it has been found that both collaborative and cooperative learning result in better understanding of content, higher achievement in grades, improved self esteem, and increased motivation to stay on task. It is felt by many that through talk the promotion of critical thinking and longer retention of information occurs. As a result learning is improved upon.
Because cooperative learning is a team process improvement on teamwork skills and the ability to resolve group conflicts occurs. These skills are needed in today's world where business success relies heavily on being a team player. And what not a better place then the classroom to develop these skills? As an instructor we must help develop a productive learning team. This is accomplished by training students in group processes and assigning diverse groups of three to five students.
As one can see collaborative and cooperative learning have many benefits for students. I will now focus my attention on cooperative learning and how it used in and enhances science learning.
www.gdrc.org/kmgmt/c-learn/index.html
www.studygs.net/cooplearn.htm
I agree that group collaboration and cooperation are very beneficial to student learning but it is also a skill that needs to be taught to students. I am learning first hand from my clinical placement that you cannot just put students together in a group (no matter how well-thought out that group is), give them a task or a common goal, and expect this great learning to take place. As a teacher, you must teach students explicitly how to work together cooperatively. Once students have this skill it definitely does benefit the learning that takes place. Without this skill, it may be possible that no learning takes place.
ReplyDeleteI agree with Crystal that group work is a beneficial way for students to learn. Working in a group is a skill that must be taught just like any other content knowledge. If students are asked to work in groups without having the skills to do so it can create a very frustrating environment for the students and the teacher. When a group functions correctly I believe that it is a great way to foster a students learning.
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