Using Cooperative Groups to Enhance Student Learning in a High School Math Class

There are many ways that teachers can use cooperative learning in their classroom. The literature review found in this capstone dives into the research surrounding cooperative learning, starting with the four theoretical perspectives on cooperative learning identified by Slavin (1995, as cited by Slavin, 2011) and how they work together to enhance learning. Also discussed is a 2003 study by Kramarski and Mevarech which demonstrates the need to expose students to metacognitive training. Liljedahl et al.’s (2021) research on how to group students can also be found in this capstone. The research from this literature review, along with the author’s personal experiences, sparked the idea for this capstone project. This project consists of materials to be used alongside cooperative learning curriculum. Included is a master list of collaborative learning statements to aid in discussion, a visual of Polya’s (1973) problem-solving process to be used throughout the lessons, four lesson plans to teach and model the behaviors that will be expected of students, and two unit plans to demonstrate how Polya’s (1973) method and other cooperative strategies can be used. The goal is that these materials can be used by other teachers to increase the effectiveness of cooperative learning in their classrooms