Collaborative+Learning

=ADVANTAGES OF COLLABORATIVE LEARNING= Research suggests that:
 * More open classes have a direct impact on the way in which teachers teach (Hall, Higgins, McCaughey, Wall & Woolner, 2007).
 * Although a teacher-dominated approach (Horne-Martin 2002 as cited in Hall et. al., 2007) to learning is more often used, many professionals suggest the formation of desks in a ‘horse shoe’ or ‘T-shape’ formation where students can see each other and the teacher enhances a students on-task behaviour and learning (Alexander, 1992; McNamara & Waugh, 1993; Galton //et al.,// 1999 as cited in Hall et. al., 2007) as it is found that students are more likely to ask more questions and be more interactive when seated in this arrangement rather than in rows (Marx //et al//. 2000 as cited in Hall et. al., 2007).
 * Non-verbal Communication takes on a role in collaborative learning (Baker, Blaye, Dillenbourg & O'Malley, 1996).

How to implement Collaborative Learning into a classroom:
 * Arrange tables and chairs in a 'U' or 'Horseshoe' shape.
 * Arrange tables and chairs in small groups.
 * Lead group discussions in the class.
 * Introduce 'Circle Time' into class activities.

Collaborative Learning is an excellent learning tool/strategy for students with learning difficulties. These students can be 'paired/buddied-up' with higher academic achieving students in order to gain the best possible learning outcomes.

**__REFERENCE LIST__** Baker, M., Blaye, A., Dillenbourg, P. & O'Malley, C. (1996). The evolution of research on collaborative learning. //Learning in Humans and Machine: Towards an interdisciplinary learning science//, 189-211.

Hall, E., Higgins, S., McCaughey, C., Wall, K. & Woolner, P. (2007). A sound foundation? What we know about the impact of environments on learning and the implications for building schools for the future. //Oxford Review of Education, 33//(1), 47-70.