Cooperative Learning

The topic covered this week is "Cooperative Learning" and how it relates to social learning theories.  When I think of cooperative learning I usually picture groups of students solving problems together or putting together some kind of project, which is very similar to how Pitler, Hubbell, Kuhn, and Malenoski describe it, though they add that it enhances student learning (2007).  I love to use collaborative learning in my class, though I know it is not as effective as it could be.  As Pitler et al recommend, I try to vary the ways in which I group students (2007).  I have let students choose their groupings, which can be very useful depending on the assignment or task, though usually I find that they would rather use this as social hour than time to complete their work.  I have assigned groups based on who I know can work together (without constant fighting and argument) taking into account ability of teh students.  I have never really grouped with all high functioning in one group, all middle range in a group, and all low functioning in a group, as I do not think this to be an effective grouping technique.  I usually pair a high with a low and one to two middle range depending on the assignment.  This way I feel I have somewhat of a group leader and someone who can help the others over the hump of they need the push.  I have even grouped kids by having each student pick a playing card from a deck and pairing up with the same number.  

As for using technology to facilitate cooperative learning I have used a few different types for projects.  I have used Xtranormal.com to have students create review videos (which they loved) and present them to the class.  I have had students create PowerPoint presentations to introduce, extend, and review topics covered in class and present these as well.  The presentation aspect I think is important in that it offers the students the opportunity to brag about their work a bit, but also, it gives the kids a chance to teach their peers.  They will learn better by teaching and becoming what Dr. Orey calls a "more knowledgeable other" (2010).

There are many social media sites available to students and sites that are already in high use by students, and they are slowly finding their way into the schools.  I found a couple of interesting videos talking about using Twitter in the classroom.  I would love to see more information about how it is actually used and some ideas for other content areas like math.


References

Laureate Education, Inc. (Executive Producer). (2010). Program eight. Social learning theories [Webcast]. Bridging learning theory, instruction and technology. Baltimore, MD: Author.

Pitler, H., Hubbell, E., Kuhn, M., & Malenoski, K. (2007). Using technology with classroom 

        instruction that works. Alexandria, VA: ASCD.