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Collaborative learning is becoming a more popular teaching method in the classroom and workplace. This type of learning involves two or more individuals working together to learn a new topic of reach a common goal. This allows the group members to capitalize on each other’s knowledge or skill of a certain topic.
One of the most important aspects of effective collaborative learning is to immediately build strong group interdependence. This is a camaraderie that encourages group members to work together to reach a common objective. Collaborative learning could include awarding bonus points to a group if all members score above a specific score.
An often overlooked strategy is to keep the groups small. Since group members will be required to interact on a regular basis, it is important to keep groups to a maximum of six students. More than six could result in finding time to fit all members’ schedules to collaborate.
Another effective concept is to implement peer instruction. This is typically comprised of developing assignments by which students learn a specific expertise on different topics. Then, the student is required to teach their peers in a structured format such as developing an activity, an interactive online lecture, a game or a quiz.
Similarly, by giving students more control over the collaborative work process, they will be able to better manage within groups. Students should be given a choice in learning activities, initiation of activity, decision-making and the end products. Groups who select their own topics and develop their own projects will have much more pride and thus motivation to successfully complete the assignment. The student will take ownership of the project.
