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Cooperative learning in the college communication classroom

James Eugene Putz, University of Nebraska - Lincoln

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to answer the question: what facilitates and/or inhibits cooperative learning in the college communication classroom? The concept of cooperative learning has been studied extensively in the elementary school situation. The Johnsoan brothers at Minnesota and Slavin at John Hopkins have developed several characteristics of cooperative learning which facilitate and/or inhibit cooperative learning at the elementary school level. Because cooperative learning techniques are being developed and practiced at the college level, this study sought to understand what facilitates and/or inhibits cooperative learning at the college level. According to this study there are five themes facilitating cooperative learning and three themes inhibiting cooperative learning in the college communication classroom. This study utilized a qualitative approach within an interpretive orientation which recognizes that knowledge represents the current best explanation of a particular situation but knowledge is constantly changing as more information is uncovered and additional data is developed (Polkinghorne, 1983). Data were collected using a triangulation of data collection methods (including critical incident narratives, focus groups, and participant observer notes). Instructors, instructor assistants, and students from communication CS311 classes participated in this study. This study suggested that in order to use cooperative learning in the college communication classroom, teachers and students must learn the techniques, develop strong social skills, and overcome student apathy and individualism. Although most college instructors continue to use the classroom lecture format, students enjoy active learning situations. Cooperative learning can be a useful teaching/learning tool for the college classroom.

Subject Area

Communication|Language arts

Recommended Citation

Putz, James Eugene, "Cooperative learning in the college communication classroom" (1997). ETD collection for University of Nebraska-Lincoln. AAI9736946.
https://digitalcommons.unl.edu/dissertations/AAI9736946

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