Cooperative Learning is a systematic pedagogical strategy that encourages small groups of individuals to work together for the achievement of common goal or target. The term ‘Collaborative Learning’ often used as a synonym for the cooperative learning when , in fact it is a separate strategy that encompasses a broader range of group interaction such as developing learning communities , stimulating student/faculty discussion and encouraging electronic exchanges. Both approaches stress on the importance of faculty and students involvement in the learning process.
When integrating cooperative or collaborative learning strategies into a course careful planning and preparation are very imperative. Understanding how to form groups, ensure positive independence, maintain individual accountability, resolve group conflict develop appropriate assignment and grading criteria and manage active learning environment are critical to the achievement of a successful cooperative learning experience. Cooperative learning can be used through some new techniques for the augmentation of the learning process by teachers for the students.
There is much more to cooperative learning than merely arranging students into groups, and it has been described as structuring positivity.