Involving Students in Learning

         


          Today's class was quite different than what I am used to...it was held virtually!  While there were some issues with the sound, the class was able to discuss, with Dr. Smirnova, cooperative learning and what we have learned from our readings on SIM.  Cooperative learning methods allow students to work together to achieve a common goal.  Unlike the group work I experienced in school (one person doing all the work while everyone else chats), this method requires each student to be a productive member of the group.  Students must work collaboratively and respectfully within their group.  This method helps develop interpersonal skills because students must be able to express their ideas and opinions in ways that are sensitive to others also.  Cooperative learning erases the competitive spirit of school and replaces it with cooperative structures instead.  Students are no longer responsible for their own work, but for others as well. 


          Towards the end of our virtual class, Dr. Smirnova asked our class to look at the jigsaw technique for Wednesday.  This is a cooperative learning technique that, as stated by jigsaw.org, "reduces racial conflict among school children, promotes better learning, improves student motivation, and increases enjoyment of the learning experience."  Teachers can create a jigsaw classroom by dividing students into diverse 5-6 member groups with one leader.  The lesson for the day is then divided into 5-6 segments (one for each member) and time is given for review of the student's segment.  Then, the "experts" working on, say, segment 1 meet with other "experts" on the segment 1.  After discussion, the "experts" meet back in their jigsaw groups and share the information they have learned.  The teacher should be checking in and walking around from group to group to intervene when necessary.  At the end of this cooperative learning, it is suggested to give a quiz so that students realize it is important to remember and understand the knowledge their group has gained. 

          All classrooms should use cooperative learning!  It is a great way for students to work together and gather knowledge without being lectured and led by a teacher.  By using the SIM, students have a more meaningful experience with the lesson.
Jigsaw Classroom