Program

Education K-12 M.A.

Year Approved

2020

First Advisor

Silmser, Lisa

Abstract

Cooperative learning is an instructional method in which small groups of students work collaboratively to solve a problem or complete a task. This instructional method has been used with all grade-levels, across all subject areas, and in classrooms throughout our country and the world. Numerous studies have been conducted that have investigated the effectiveness of cooperative learning on various age-groups, in diverse settings, and with students with and without disabilities. This literature review examines the impact of cooperative learning on the academic achievement and social development of students. It explores research on methods and components of cooperative learning to determine those that are proven to be most effective. It further examines the efficacy of cooperative learning on the academic achievement and social development of students with emotional and behavioral disorders. Overall, the studies reviewed indicated that cooperative learning can be instrumental in increasing academic achievement and improving social skills when implemented correctly. Although some studies have shown cooperative learning to be a beneficial instructional strategy for students with emotional and behavioral disorders, research in this area is not as clearly evident. However, it does appear that cooperative learning, in conjunction with direct instruction, may be of benefit for these students.

Degree Name

Education K-12 M.A.

Document Type

Masterʼs thesis

Included in

Education Commons

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