1. A cooperative learning I remember from elementary is working on a science project where we had to build a bridge. After a couple days we then had a competition in the class to see who's bridge could hold the most weight.
In university I remember working on a research project in my Bio 100 class.
2. I believe the cooperative learning can enhance learning as long as ALL five elements are properly functioning. I think it is so important for students to help each other but if one student is doing the entire project both parties fail.
3. The similarities between reciprocal questioning and instructional conversations is that they are both working towards the same goal, comprehension or explanation of ideas. They are different in that IC believes in conversations because each student has something important to say while reciprocal questioning is use questions to provide explanations.
4. Ability grouping would be important to implament into the classroom with guided reading. It is important that each student in the group is at the same level so they can read an appropriate book. A mixed-grouping would be more appropriate in science projects where it would be important to have a variety of learners so that they can help each other out. The effective learners can help the stuggling learners.
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16 years ago
Haha that's funny, I mentioned the same bridge-building example! I agree that both ability and mixed grouping need to take place in effective instruction. It's important for the gifted students to feel challenged, but it is also important for them to learn how to work well with other people that are at different learning abilities. Also, if you have students in your classroom that can help other students learn concepts they are struggling with, why not use that resource? Maybe they can do a better job of explaining than the teacher!
ReplyDeleteI liked your answer for question 2. I have seen so many cases where there are one or two students in the group doing all of the work. I think the best way to avoid this is to set up the group so that, in order for them to succeed and get a good grade, there has to be proof that all group members have actively participated. Maybe it could be a worksheet where everyone has to take turns writing or something like that.
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