On any given day anyone venturing into an elementary classroom might be confused, perplexed or downright concerned about what they are seeing. Often times the adults seem to be oblivious to what is going on, there are large and spectacular messes everywhere. Sometimes the din of student’s voices rise to a cacophony equivalent to a night at the orchestra or heavy metal concert. But, if you take a moment, maybe two to watch, you will be given a snapshot of some intensive collaborative learning.

What are the benefits of collaborative learning?

Cornell University states there are 5 main benefits of critical thinking:

• Development of higher-level thinking, oral communication, self-management, and leadership skills.

Although learning how to observe, reflect, and reason for yourself in a very important life skill, so is being able to listen and assimilate another’s thoughts. The ability to be able to merge thoughts, ideas and plans are critical social skills that have to be learned through practice and self-reflection.

• Promotion of student-faculty interaction.

Collaboration with a mentor is a very important life skill. I remember my grandparents and parents always telling me, “You need to respect your elders.”  I wasn’t always sure why they said that. After I was older I figured it out. I take time now to explain to my own children and students why this is important.

• Increase in student retention, self-esteem, and responsibility.

When you are processing information it is more efficient in its processing when it has many different ways to look at the information. When you have to verbalize the information it stays in long term memory. When you know that you are a part of a team and that you are an important part of contributing, this leads to a feeling of self-importance and an understanding that you are responsible to others and to yourself.

• Exposure to and an increase in understanding of diverse perspectives.

Not everyone agrees or sees things in the same way. Looking at this phenomenon contributes to skills of respectful negotiation and diplomacy when a group is not agreeing on how collaboration is going within the group.

• Preparation for real life social and employment situations.

It is hoped that through practice in the classroom the student can glean the necessary social skills to navigate successfully, responsibly and respectfully when working with friends, family and coworkers.

The mixed age group (ages 6-9 years or 9-12 years) in a Montessori community and guidance from the adults promotes collaboration and provides opportunities to put these skills into practice.

Sincerely,

Christine