Cooperative Work Groups : Preparing Students for the Real World

In today′s political climate, where the value and success of the educational process is directly linked to publishable test scores, cooperative learning experiences have been either de-emphasized or ignored. This has created a learning environment diametrically opposite to the requirements of the real work world, leaving our students unprepared for the future challenges they will face.

Mandel outlines how educators can design meaningful learning experiences that will address standards and utilize modern-day cooperative learning, brain research, and the Internet to effectively develop a student′s ability to thrive in the twenty-first century′s workforce.

Key features include:

• Benefits of cooperative work groups and how students accomplish tasks in groups
• Application of brain research in the classroom to maximize learning
• Integration of technology into the curriculum, even when computer accessibility is extremely limited
• Classroom-tested, ready-to-use unit plans
• Modification strategies for learning disabled and English Language Learners
• Reproducible forms, Multiple Intelligence assessments, group and individual assessment strategies, and grading rubrics
• Numerous references and Web resources for further support, including the author′s weekly updated Web site

The cooperative learning techniques put forth in Cooperative Work Groups are designed to emphasize the students′ best learning styles and integrate the newest technology into their work, ensuring their success as individuals working together in groups on long-term projects in today′s work society.