ABSTRACT
This chapter begins with some insights into cooperative learning and a variety of different group approaches. Problem-based learning offers another kind of project for group work with middle and high school a student that situates itself nicely in the social studies curriculum. Before beginning any collaborative or cooperative learning activity in middle and high school classrooms, teachers need to spend time thinking about different ways of grouping students and which method gives all of the students the best opportunity to succeed. Cooperative and collaborative learning activities are undeniably much more active for students than traditional teaching methods utilized at the secondary level. A major benefit of cooperative and collaborative groups is that group members take ownership of their learning. The activity should include a rationale for using cooperative learning, standards, detailed instructions for student roles within each group, and a method for assessing student learning.
