Purpose of Collaborative Learning
Learning is enhanced when it is more like a team effort that a solo race. Good learning, like good work, is collaborative and social, not competitive and isolated. Working with others often increases involvement in learning. Sharing one's own ideas and responding to others' reactions sharpens thinking and deepens understanding.
Strategies
All Modes
- Provides frequent opportunities for students to engage in one or more interactive activities
- Formal and/or informal discussions of course topics (Q & A discussion section if online)
- Collaborative course activities and assessments
- Study groups
- Utilizes technology to enhance student collaboration
- Encourages sharing of photo (in LMS) and personal introductions/Ice Breakers
- Models good discussion participation and provides criteria
- Provides opportunities for collaboration in a variety of ways (student-student, student-content, student-instructor)
Additional Research
Need more ideas? Visit the Curriculum and Organizational Development team located on the 2nd floor of the library for support!