Module 4: Cultivate Collaboration Among Students

By: Lana Kempton, M.Ed.
USG eCampus



Introduction

"Learning is enhanced when it is more like a team effort than a solo race. Good learning, like good work, is collaborative and social, not competitive and isolated. Working with others often increases involvement in learning. Sharing one's own ideas and responding to others' reactions sharpens thinking and deepens understanding" (Chickering & Gamson, 1987).


Overview

Collaboration provides a route for social and project-based learning to take place. Neo (2003) states that students engaged in collaborative learning not only enhanced their critical thinking and problem-solving skills, but they also became more active learners in their learning processes. Social learning increases involvement, understanding, and breaks the social isolation of distance learning. According to Madland and Richard (2016), collaboration fosters:

  • Higher-level cognitive abilities

  • Communication skills

  • Practical experience

  • Teamwork

  • Experience with group dynamics

  • A deep and broader understanding of the course material

Cultivating collaboration will require special considerations for students who are not able to access the Learning Management System (LMS). See the section on applying UDL principles for more information.