Lauren Paterson
Teacher, Social Subjects and RME Faculty
Introduction
Welcome to the first Co-operative Learning at Forrester eMagazine! Forrester High is committed to providing creative and inclusive teaching strategies, which engage our young people and encourage them to fulfil their potential. Co-operative Learning is a teaching strategy which provides a fun and effective setting to learn and consolidate knowledge and skills.
Co-operative Learning is essentially structured group work where the five basic elements are present (see page 2). All students work together to achieve a shared goal. It can also be used in all subject areas. It is another teaching tool for staff to use to maintain an excellent delivery of education.
A great deal of research has been carried out about Co-operative Learning and the results have been extremely positive. When learning cooperatively, students are more likely to achieve better academic results, improve their social skills and self-esteem, foster more caring relationships, and develop empowerment and maturity.
Like some of my colleagues, I attended the Co-operative Learning Academy (run by Chris Ward) in November 2011. I can see the benefits in my students first hand when they learn co-operatively. This eMagazine has been designed to share how Forrester is using Co-operative Learning and to give students, staff, parents and carers information about this fantastic approach to learning and teaching.
Index
What are the Five Basic Elements of Co-operative Learning?
Introduction to the eMagazine.
How Teachers use Co-operative Learning.
Co-operative Learning Case Study.
Co-operative Learning at Murrayburn Primary.
Focus: Social Skills and the Curriculum for Excellence
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Edinburgh
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