COOPERATIVE LEARNING WITH THE COMPUTER

What can be done in case some members of a group do not show positive interpersonal and communication skills? Can the teacher help in this situation?

Computer, fairly natural learning vehicle for cooperative learning this has been agreed upon researchers, but for them educators them still wary about the computer role in cooperative learning. The goal of the Department of Education and the Government od to have a ratio of 1:1 wherein one computer per student .But still it is a big challenge not only in the Philippines but also in other developing countries due to lack of funds and resources. That’s why many of the students would go out and use computer in internet café. Through this cooperative learning then takes place. But it can never be called cooperative learning of the members of the group didn’t share a common goal, interdependence, interaction, individual accountability and social skills.

Cooperative learning seems to be difficult for those students who are independent learner in such manner the learner are comfortable in individual works. In some cases like this the teacher must find the right answer for this type of learner on them to deal with the other students. Sometimes some student found it very difficult to deal with other students because of their knowledge skills, talents and even their attitude. But the teacher should guide their students for them to be open with the others and show interest in group activities. Thus, this immediate solution can/cannot be able to accomplish by other type of students. This kind of activity (which is cooperative learning) can be a solution for them tom become socially developed individual that compromises their individual accountability, activeness in participation, develop independence, and know their ultimate goal.

The cooperative learning that composes by different kinds of individuals should be guided properly by the teacher for them to show positive interpersonal and good communication skills.