ABSTRACT
In this chapter we shall look at the evidence that supports the adage, ‘a problem shared is a problem solved’. The source of this evidence comes mainly from studies carried out in the United States of America but contributions from researchers in the United Kingdom, Holland and Israel will also be considered. In examining this evidence an important distinction needs to be kept in mind. The work from the United States has, for the most part, concerned itself with answering this question by comparing the outcomes achieved when pupils worked in groups and when they did not. In the United Kingdom, however, more attention has been given to the process by which a successful outcome was achieved. In this way, therefore, the studies may be seen as complementary.
