Cooperative Language Learning: Principles and Benefits

Cooperative Language Learning (CLL) and Collaborative Learning (CL)

What is Learning?

• Dependent on socially structured exchange of information in groups.
• Motivated to increase the learning of others.
• Connected to individual accountability.

How Cooperative Groups Differ from Typical Classroom Groups

In Cooperative Groups:

• Leadership is shared by all members.
• Group members are chosen randomly.
• All members contribute to one single product.
• Priority is to get the job done with social skills and the help of every member.

In Typical Groups:

• One leader is chosen by the teacher.
• Groups are homogeneous in nature.
• Each member has his/her own product.
• Priority is simply to get the job done.

Benefits of Cooperative Learning

• Raise the achievements of all students.
• Foster positive relationships among students.
• Promote healthy social, psychological, and cognitive development.
• Prioritize cooperation rather than competition.
• Encourage positive interdependence.
• Facilitate face-to-face interaction.

Cooperative Learning in Second Language Teaching

• Learning occurs through communicative interaction in the classroom.
• It is an extension of Communicative Language Teaching (CLT).
• Learning is learner-centered, not teacher-fronted.

Theory of Language

Cooperative Language Learning has basic premises regarding the interactive nature of language, including five core concepts:

1. Born to talk
2. Conversation
3. Maxims
4. Learning of L1 maxims
5. Learning of L2 maxims

Advantages of Cooperation in ESL Classrooms

• Frequency and variety in second language practice.
• Possibility for developing and increasing language skills.
• Chance for students to act as resources for each other.
• Freedom for teachers to develop new skills and activities.
• Positive social attitude.
• Social support in learning.

Design and Objectives

The objectives of Cooperative Learning include:

• To develop critical thinking skills.
• To develop communicative competence through interaction activities.

Syllabus

CLL does not assume any particular form of language syllabus, as activities can be taught via cooperative learning. CLL is the systematic and carefully planned use of group-based procedures; thus, CLL is an alternative to teacher-fronted teaching.

Types of Learning and Teaching Activities

• Formal cooperative learning groups: Ensure that students are actively part of the work of organizing material, explaining it, summarizing it, and integrating it into conceptual structures.
• Informal cooperative learning groups: Ensure that students are cognitively processing the material being taught.