Compares two different methods of educational instruction, both addressing the improvement of pupils in bird species identification skills. Uses hands-on and group-based learning styles with (stuffed) taxidermy specimens and teacher-based slide presentations. Reports an increase in knowledge with both instructional methods but different learning…

The Motivated Strategies for Learning Questionnaire was completed by 197 business students, comparing self-regulated strategies in lecture versus hands-on computer lab. Effort regulation had a positive effect, peer learning a negative effect on learning computer concepts in lectures. Prior computer experience had no effect. Data were inconclusive…

Elicits end-of-term written evaluations of debate-like activities in a 70-student class on rhetorical traditions. Indicates that, while a few students expressed discomfort with the competitiveness of the activities, most were laudatory. Shows the value of debate-across-the-curriculum for promoting small group communication and for fostering…

Examined how preservice second language teachers navigate through the difficulties of introducing cooperative learning into the classrooms during student teaching, despite the fact that this approach differs from their cooperating teachers' customary teaching strategy. Sought to determine what helps or inhibits the students teachers' progress.…

Analyzes student cooperation identified in cases of IPPUTs (innovative pedagogical practice using technology) in German elementary and secondary schools, part of the Second Information Technology in Education Study-Module 2 (SITES-M2). Discusses the use of ICT (information and communication technology) and how it promotes a cooperative and…

Case study of grade 8 at-risk students' perceptions about learning in a nonstandard classroom, a "technology lab" designed around three research-based approaches to the educational environment: cooperative group work, authentic tasks and assessments, and appropriate use of technology. Finds that students feel more motivated to learn, receive…

Examines the influence of participation in the Graduate Teaching Fellows (GTFs) program involved in one K-12 sustained collaboration that emphasizes the co-development and co-implementation of hands-on, inquiry-based activities. Identifies three benefits participants received from working in the program. Demonstrates professional risks the GTFs…

Investigates verbal behaviors and the relationships with the improvement of learning strategies, motivations, and attitudes in a 7th grade cooperative science classroom setting. Studies students' perceptions of cooperative learning by achievement level. Reports that verbal behaviors in cooperative learning were positively related to the…

Describes a drama written by students that helps them achieve an understanding and an empathy that eludes most of the inhabitants of Israel. Discusses how Arab and Jewish students collaborate to compose their drama. Concludes that at its best, the teenage participants in Peace Child Israel find that delicate balance point between using theatre to…

The questions of "untracking" and cooperative learning for the academically gifted are important, because arguments concerning this small population are often used to defeat tracking reduction or elimination efforts for other students. This article rejects ability grouping for high achievers and recommends cooperative programs involving all…

Reviews cooperative learning theory, listing areas of improvement for both disabled and regular students. Explains how cooperative learning can be used to help mainstream students into social studies classes and gives guidelines for implementation. Points out that success depends on teachers' planning, implementation, and correct evaluation. (GG)

Presents a story-writing activity to encourage the relationship between children's experiences with literature and their ability to write. Emphasizes the importance of having students work in cooperative groups. (MG)

The current status of research and development on cooperative learning in mathematics is discussed in an interview with Neil Davidson. The focus is on significant achievement differences favoring small group procedures. Key issues discussed are cooperative learning and problem-solving skills, and students' need for some kind of reward. (JD)

Advocates teaching at-risk secondary and higher education students to read critically. Discusses seven activities for teaching critical reading, which involve reading and writing in a cooperative learning environment. (RS)

Educators are questioning the validity of ability grouping. The benefits accruing to high achievers may not offset the stigma attached to the low-achieving groups. Alternatives to ability grouping include mastery learning, cooperative learning, and computer-aided instruction. More flexible grouping can help students develop cooperation and…