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The Lure Of Lectures Vs. The Call Of Cooperative Learning In College Classrooms, Mary Ransdell

Essays in Education

Cooperative learning, once common on college campuses, lost favor with that population, and gained favor with K-12 educators. However, the academic achievement benefits remain and the focus on cooperation rather than competition appeals to adults. This manuscript argues that cooperative learning strategies are viable alternatives to the traditional lecture format that is worth considering. Whether the strategies occur throughout the entire class period or interspersed with a traditional format, the students benefit. The author explains how she uses cooperative strategies, interspersed with traditional format in a post-secondary setting.