WK9 Social learning = Co-operative learning and structured tasks

Question 1

What are the five elements that truly define co-operative learning groups (Johnson and Johnson)

Answer 1

• collective success
• supportive teamwork
  -Individual accountability
• teamwork and social skills
• group processing

Question 2

What is involved in a well structured task

Answer 2

• specific answers
• sections can be divided amongst members
• assigned roles
• motivation and competition

Question 3

What is involved in an ill structured task

Answer 3

• multiple answers and outcomes
• not fully specified procedures
• any format
• Emphasizes collaboration for optimal outcomes.

Question 4

Things to consider when setting up co-operative groups

Answer 4

• Group size aligns with learning goals.
• Aim for mixed gender groups.
• Include tolerant students with ‘difficult’ ones.
• Teachers monitor participation and listening.

Question 5

Should roles be assigned in collaborative groups?

Answer 5

• Roles can provide direction.
• Should rotate roles where people perform different tasks
• Avoid the idea of fixed roles in all situations.
• Tests for group roles should be avoided.