Cooperative Learning Students who work in small groups, even when interacting with high-tech equipment, learn significantly more than students who work primarily alone. Cooperative learning is not a new concept. Extensive research, initiated in the late 1800s, has shown the advantages of cooperative learning over competitive and individualistic learning in various learning characteristics. The performance of each member is vital to the group's success. The members exchange ideas and help one another learn.
Individual performance is evaluated and feedback is provided.
Groups assess their effectiveness and identify areas for improvement. This encourages individual reflection and organization of thoughts. One member shares his or her solution with the group. This provides opportunities to practice and improve oral presentation skills. This task is rotated among the members of the group.