[Download] "Enhancing Outcomes in School Science for Pupils During Transition from Elementary School Using Cooperative Learning (Report)" by Middle Grades Research Journal # Book PDF Kindle ePub Free
eBook details
- Title: Enhancing Outcomes in School Science for Pupils During Transition from Elementary School Using Cooperative Learning (Report)
- Author : Middle Grades Research Journal
- Release Date : January 22, 2010
- Genre: Education,Books,Professional & Technical,
- Pages : * pages
- Size : 242 KB
Description
INTRODUCTION Groupwork and cooperative learning in science education are already incorporated into the pedagogical practices in many countries (Howe et al., 2007). Groupwork in science often forms part of practitioner guides (e.g., Harlen & Qualter, 2004; Sharp, Peacock, Johnsey, Simon, & Smith, 2007; Topping & Thurston, 2005). Within Scotland groupwork has reached the level of national policy in the new "Curriculum for Excellence" science outcomes which specifically identify the need for group discussion in effective learning (Scottish Government, 2008). The effectiveness of groupwork and cooperative learning strategies in science have been widely reported over a number of years. Basili and Sanford (1991) reported that in a sample of 62 students studying in a community college, use of cooperative groupwork in chemistry resulted in students holding fewer misconceptions than those taught by direct tuition. Howe et al. (2007) reported that in a sample of elementary school pupils drawn from 24 classes that groupwork, and the discussion it facilitated, played a critical role in enhancing the learning of pupils in two science topics. However, there is an absence of literature regarding the longevity of such gains, and no previous literature that looks at whether such gains survive transition after a change of school.