Cooperative Problem Solving
Overview
As learners work together to solve problems, they learn new strategies and practice Communication skills as they express their academic thinking. This communal process can help students reflect on their problem-solving strategies and adjust their approaches to support future learning, consider others' perspectives, and support Critical Thinking and Collaboration skills. When classrooms scaffold and implement cooperative problem solving as part of the culture of learning, learners are better prepared to come together to achieve classroom and community goals, core to Civic Mindedness. Showcasing problem-solving as a collaborative effort and allowing learners to experience the process of trial and error can help to strengthen Learner Mindset.
Example: Use This Strategy in the Classroom
Watch how this elementary teacher facilitates cooperative problem solving with small groups of learners through stations. By asking questions that stimulate strategy use, he supports their Critical Thinking and strengthens their Communication Skills by having them explain their reasoning and take on leadership roles.
Design It into Your Product
Additional Resources
Additional examples, research, and professional development. These resources are possible representations of this strategy, not endorsements.
Factors Supported by this Strategy
More Cooperative Learning Strategies
Flexible grouping is a classroom practice that temporarily places students together in given groups to work together, with the purpose of achieving a given learning goal or activity.
Gallery walks are ways of showcasing content and materials as multiple “exhibitions” for students to view and interact with as part of larger learning goals.
Interactive writing activities for young learners can include cooperative activities to practice their foundational writing skills and can support engagement with content knowledge as they write and draw to reflect upon what they have learned.
Respectful redirection, or error correction, outlines a clear and concise way that educators can provide feedback on behaviors that need immediate correction, in a positive manner.
