What will effective implementation of cooperative learning look like in my classrooms?
Perhaps the most important step in effective implementation of cooperative learning is for teachers to take the time to explain and model appropriate group behavior before the activity begins. When such appropriate behaviors are in place, students: • Are accountable for every student in their group arriving at the answer (this can be achieved by explaining that there will be a quick “whip-around” at the end of the lesson, during which the instructor peppers every group with questions, randomly selecting one group member who must be responsible for the answer without help). • Know how to act when their peers have a different level of understanding of a concept than they do (they don’t call names or ignore the other students’ needs) • Understand the expectation for level of movement and voice during the activity • Understand the expected outcome of the group activity • Understand their expected role in the group activity 3. How do I implement this strategy at my school? Formal cooperativ