Even in the Mecca of education system much has been written about cooperative learning. In most recent years. A lot of licensed teachers are hired in different schools both public and private who think that we should focus on the cognitive learning especially in my area of discipline (hospitality). Thru this technique, instructional method are most focused with minimal understanding about cooperative learning. The said learning is not just segments of constructs like chronological formulas in every equation or simply distributing tasks to your students.
According to Johnson &Jonso 19999 Cooperative learning is an instructional method in which students work in small groups to accomplish a common learning goal under the guidance of a teacher. The method is characterized by the following features, which are distinct from other forms of group work:
Learners positively depend on each other in a team to achieve a mutual learning goal.
Learners engage in face-to-face interactions.
Learners are assessed individually and held accountable for equally sharing and contributing to the mastery of learning goals.
Learners use and develop appropriate collaborative and interpersonal skills to teach and encourage each other to learn.
Learners reflect and assess the effectiveness of group functioning for future learning (Johnson and Johnson 1999; Kagan 1994).
Those above mentioned things dose not learns sitting in a college classroom on how to manage a class. You can talk about the techniques, demonstrate mathematical equation on the simplest way, and even watch a veteran teacher work his or her magic in the classroom, but until you have to get students settled, on task and learning, it’s all just talk. Also the dilemma of your classroom if it should be teacher centered of student centered is another prime list.
I’ve been teaching for sevenyears, we should all admit that we have days when classroom management is a hard row to hoe. But then again, as we should tap our shoulders and remember that “hey this my class room and I need to sail this smoothly”.
In all aspect, cooperative learning is like preparing balanced meal. You cant achieve your recommended dietary allowance unless you plan about it or if you are equipped with it.
By: Mr. Regie F. Atienza
