How to Maximize Cooperative Learning by Tapping Into Personality Strengths
Cooperative learning is a widely-used classroom team-building strategy. The goal of each cooperative group is simply to accomplish an assigned task together. Cooperative learning group or teams work best when the size of the group is small and the task is well-suited to a “more heads are better than one” approach.
Probably one of the most important components of cooperative learning (beyond a clear understanding of objective) is the defining of roles for each group member. This is what separates cooperative learning from mere group work. Teachers and facilitators should use roles appropriate to the task. Although there are endless role possibilities, some examples commonly used are: materials gatherer, presenter, fact checker, cheerleader, and coach.