Seven Principles for Teaching
#2: Emphasize the Social Nature of Learning
The learning environment is founded on the social nature
of learning and actively encourages well-organized
co-operative learning.
of learning and actively encourages well-organized
co-operative learning.
- Neuroscience confirms that we learn through social interaction - the organization of learning should be highly social.
- Co-operative group work, appropriately organized and structured, has demonstrated very clear benefits for achievement as well as for behavioural and affective outcomes. Cooperative methods work for all types of students because, done well, they push learners of all abilities.
- Personal research and self-study are naturally also important, and the opportunities for autonomous learning should grow as students mature.