Supporting Cooperative Learning in a Science Classroom
Course Description: Being able to work with others to solve complex problems is necessary skill for our 21st century learners. Even though science provides ample opportunity to practice and master these skills, science teachers often leave students to their own devices and hope that things work out. In this module, we will look at cooperative learning opportunities, specially lab groups, and strategies to help students practice as well as “grading” rubrics for holding students accountable for their group work.
Topics Addressed:
Benefits of cooperative learning
Using lab groups to play a part in cooperative learning
Examples of cooperative learning for science
How cooperative learning supports the social and emotional development of adolescents
Strategies for managing cooperative learning groups
Knowledge:
Cooperative learning is an effective and age appropriate instructional strategy for middle school students
Cooperative learning processes lessen individual competitiveness and foster cooperative small problem-solving group behavior
Skills:
Construct and manage effective groupings
Plan lessons and units that support cooperative learning in a highly effective way
Mindset:
Teachers believe cooperative learning is an instructional strategy that develops students’ social and communication skills, increases tolerance and acceptance of diversity, and improves academic achievement