Collaborative Learning

Collaborative Learning

Collaborative learning in my experiences has not worked well. I think that in theory it could be great way to encourage learning but what usually seems to happen is that not all students in the group have the same desire to learn. I can remember many times especially in high school that group activities translated into a couple people do nothing while one or two members do all the work.

Everyone learns in different ways, some people do not learn well in a group setting and some thrive in that environment. When Abercrombie asked the group of medical student to determine the diagnosis of the patient, something that is better done in groups, she learned that the medical students “acquired good medical judgment faster than individuals working alone.” To me this seems like common sense that have more people making observations the results will be more accurate.

Collaborative learning is definitely helpful in certain situations but in order for it to be effective all members must contribute equally.