Technology Integration 101 – Collaborative Learning Method of Teaching …

is when two or more peers work together on learning activities that forces them to maintain some agreement and to eventually reach a shared understanding of new content. The process encourages discussion of ideas, collaborative argument, and interaction among learners especially when they begin the discussion with little in common.

Definition / Attributes*: Collaborative Learning This is a method of teaching that engages learners in (1) developing shared, understood learning goals with mutual respect, tolerance, trust among each others and defining clear lines of responsibility in working together; (2) creating and manipulating shared spaces (listserves, web pages, etc.) to foster their learning, (3) using multiple forms of subject matter representations (e.g., graphic, maps, virtual realities, verbal information, narratives, symbols and metaphors, audio information) and shifting between these different representation during learning activities; (4) continuous, but not continual communications in formal and informal learning environments where collaborations end after the learning activities, however, bonds, techniques, and skills continue in life long learning; (5) decisions are not necessarily made by consensus (teacher helps with clarification as learners strive to problem solve, teacher facilitates and guides learners towards solutions); (6) physical presence is not necessary and there is selective use of outsiders to provide complementary insights and information to the learners; and (7) learners are actively involved in conceiving of and internalizing the materials and new information.

*(Attributes based on Schrage’s model for collaborative communities ( Web-Based Instruction, Khan – editor, p.186 – 190)