Cooperative Learning Ideas
We sink or swim together
Mike RospendaMike Rospenda1Cooperative Learning IdeasTheory: We
all depend on each otherMike Rospenda2Make sure that kids
understand that every person in the group can contribute.Look at
learning modalities and target strong modalities for initial
jobsMake sure all the jobs are perceived as important.Look for High
quality Work on all tasks.
Theory:Mike Rospenda3Start small. Set students up for success
Use short time framesUse specific and frequent praiseHave students
notice what they are doing wellWe make behavior mistakes, we dont
do things wrong.
How Tos:Mike Rospenda41. Start with triad groups in the
beginningMakes conflict resolution easier2. Try to have the groups
work on a project for 5-10 minutes Short enough to have them stay
out of trouble, long enough to work
3. Make the tasks as concrete as possible
How Tos:Mike Rospenda5The magic questions:How, why, what if-
these will get discussion started.Have students explain their ideas
to each other, to you, to the classUse many modalities to share
informationAct it out, say it, write it, Silly it
Interpersonal Skills NeededMike Rospenda6LeadershipTrust
buildingDecision makingCommunicating
Interpersonal skills: leadershipMike Rospenda7You arent the
boss, youre the servant!Practice this. Role play what this
means.Discuss needs and satisfactions.
Interpersonal skills: TrustMike Rospenda8Do what you say, say
what you meanMake a promise, keep a promiseInterpersonal skills:
CommunicationMike Rospenda9You are the clarifierYou ask the
questionsYou make sure everyone understands directions, ideasYou
are the only one who comes up to the teacher during group timeHow
Tos: Group ProcessMike Rospenda10At the end of each session give
time for highlights and lowlightsGive time for: I learned that.Have
students do most of the discussion.ONLY PUT UPS, NO PUT DOWNS.Speak
in I sentences.Sample cooperative learning planMike
Rospenda11Review rules 5Role play rules, examples, non examples
5Discuss roles: communicator, leader, drawer, writer, 10Everybody
is responsible for everythingDescribe the task:Ask for
questions.Review roles ( try to trick them)
Sample cooperative learning planMike Rospenda12Go to workWalk
the room, be specific in praiseStop at 5-10 minutes- practice
praise, observations
Go back to work, use same routine
