ERIC Number: ED448063
Record Type: RIE
Publication Date: 2000
Pages: 12
Abstractor: N/A
ISBN: N/A
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Using Cooperative Learning 100% of the Time in Mathematics Classes Establishes a Student-Centered Interactive Learning Environment.
Panitz, Theodore
This paper describes one approach to implementing cooperative learning in mathematics classes virtually 100% of the time. By describing this maximum approach, it is hoped that teachers will be encouraged to try cooperative learning at least part of the time in their classrooms. Cooperative learning activities help identify widespread student misconceptions and enable the teacher to focus on specific concepts or algorithms. The process outlined in this paper was developed mainly in developmental math classes. In order to give an idea of how cooperative learning is implemented, three activities are described: (1) Pair-Reading; (2) Math Olympics which may be used to cover any content area; and (3) Factoring-Jig-Saw which was developed for a specific content area. Various conclusions are drawn along with references for those who wish to explore the nature and benefits of cooperative learning approaches. In order to illustrate a feeling for students' reactions to cooperative learning, three representative student responses from a course evaluation required at the end of each semester are presented. It is concluded that cooperative learning techniques, when used extensively in mathematics classes, generate many advantages for students and teachers. Cooperative structures address different student learning styles in every class, including verbal, visual, and kinesthetic. (Contains 32 references.) (ASK)
Publication Type: Opinion Papers
Education Level: N/A
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Language: English
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Authoring Institution: N/A
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Author Affiliations: N/A