Cooperative Learning Approach

Math

 Matters
By: Ginger Stiner  

Cooperative Learning Approach

Wow!  My time as a student in this math coarse through Central Lakes College is moving fast!  Weeks seem to be meshing together and flying by me.  I recognize my need to become more familiar with methods of math instruction.  I have decided to use all kinds of manipulatives in my classroom, both hands-on and virtual.

I have begun to visualize what my class will look and sound like during math lessons.  For math instruction to matter it needs to be memorable.  As a teacher I must dig deeper than worksheets!

Now, worksheets are not all bad, they certainly have their place in a balanced lesson.

One approach to Math instruction is Cooperative Learning. 

What?

What is cooperative learning?

Cooperative learning is placing students in groups to work together toward a common learning goal.

I never really thought of using this approach with math instruction.  I think that is because the math teaching that I received was more teacher-centered. 

This is what cooperative learning looks like:

Why?

Why use the cooperative learning method for math instruction?

·     Students who don’t usually play or talk to each other can work together.

·     Having a common goal unites people.

·     Students learn to communicate by expressing their ideas.

·     They learn responsibility by meeting pre-assigned learning goals.

·     They can help each other and further each other’s knowledge.

When?

When should the cooperative learning model be used?

This approach can be taken with small groups of two or three students using manipulatives or as a review before assessments.

Classrooms are busy places and real learning can get “messy” and “loud.”  The environment of the classroom matters.  It makes a difference in how much content is covered, and more importantly how much is retained.  That’s what matters!