Collaborative Learning
Collaborative learning in college is an instructional approach where students work together in small groups to solve problems, complete tasks, or discuss concepts. It emphasizes shared responsibility, active engagement, and peer-to-peer interaction.
Introduction to Collaborative Learning
Collaborative learning fosters deeper understanding, improves critical thinking, builds communication skills, and mirrors real-world teamwork. It also increases student motivation and helps create a more inclusive, supportive classroom environment.
While collaborative learning can take many forms, research points to several key elements that support student success:
Students should rely on one another in meaningful ways to complete the task. This might involve dividing responsibilities or co-constructing ideas, but the outcome depends on everyone’s contribution.
Each student should be responsible for their own learning as well as contributing to the group’s success. Techniques like peer evaluations or individual quizzes can reinforce this balance.
Learning happens through dialogue. Whether in person, in real-time online, or through discussion forums, students deepen their understanding by explaining ideas, asking questions and supporting each other’s learning.
Productive collaboration requires practice with skills like active listening, decision-making, and conflict resolution. These may need to be taught explicitly, especially in early group experiences.
Allow time for groups to reflect on how well they worked together and how they might improve. Simple debriefs or reflection prompts can help students build their collaborative skills over time.
A CTL consultant can work with you to:
- Clarify your learning goals and determine whether a collaborative approach is the best fit
- Choose appropriate group structures (pairs, small teams, jigsaw, etc.)
- Design meaningful tasks that foster cooperation rather than competition
- Anticipate and respond to common group challenges like uneven participation or unclear expectations
- Build in opportunities for feedback and reflection