“Cooperation is working together to accomplish shared goals” (Johnson & Johnson). Cooperative learning is the ability to work together, with others, to meet a desired learning outcome. This instructional approach allows students to maximize their own learning by working with others (Johnson & Johnson). There are two types of cooperative learning: formal and informal. Formal cooperative learning allows students to work together in set groups for a prolonged period such as days, weeks, or months. In contrast, informal cooperative learning allows students to work with others for shorter periods of time such as a few minutes, or a class to work together on a short assignment or discussion (Johnson & Johnson).   

I have used cooperative learning many times in my classroom. It is a beneficial instructional approach for students. Communication is an essential skill and cooperative learning requires students to have good communication with one another in order to succeed. When students work together, they learn to properly communicate with one another. Our society can be largely individualistic, promoting winning, or being the best, over communication and cooperation (Johnson & Johnson). Using cooperative learning in the classroom shows students that if you acknowledge your own, and others’, strengths and unitize them appropriately while working together, you can be even more successful than working on your own.   

In my last post, I mentioned that I often use the constructivism instructional style when I teach. I believe that constructivism and cooperative learning align nicely with one another. Although students may need some guidance before collaborating with one another, I believe they learn about communication, and how to work with others, through cooperative learning. When students learn how to work cooperatively, they begin to understand how to be a cooperative member of society and connect what they are learning to the world around them.   

Cooperative learning aligns well with my group’s topic for our instructional resource. We are instructing teachers how to incorporate the Indigenous Circle of Courage model into their classrooms. One aspect of the Circle of Courage teaches that a student’s need to belong has to be met in order for the student to grow. Utilizing the cooperative learning instructional approach in the classroom can be a great way to promote belonging in students. When students feel like they can communicate, work with, and be listened to by their classmates, a fantastic classroom community is created, one where everyone feels like they belong.  

Resource: 

Johnson, D. W., & Johnson, R. T. (n.d.). What is cooperative learning?. Cooperative Learning Institute. http://www.co-operation.org/what-is-cooperative-learning