TITLE The Effects of Cooperative Learning on Self-Esteem: A Literature Review.

Cooperative learning involves students working in small;;coups or teams to help each other learn academic mato:_ial. Cooperative learning strategies are organized, highly structured methods that usually involve formal presentation of information, student practice and coaching in learning teams, individual assessment of mastery, and public recognition of team success. By their structure and individual assignments, cooperative learning avoids the problem of letting the smart student in the group do the work while the other students get a free ride. The purpose of this literature review is to examine whether there is a difference in student self-esteem when cooperative learning approaches are used in the classroom. Research literature suggests that traditional instruction fails to meet the needs and interests of individual students. The literature also shows that students who work together develop social skills and have an understanding of multiculturalism, human systems, and group and organizational development. They learn to problem solve, negotiate, and be kind to each other. Student