Chapters 6 and 7 Reflections

     While reading chapters 6 and 7 in our class text, I discovered more about the social interactive model and cooperative learning. There are many different goals and characteristics in regards to both the model and the type of learning. 

    The social interactive model is very advantageous for teachers. The primary purpose of this teaching model is to implement student-centered learning through partnerships and group work. Students are encouraged to engage in a higher level of thinking and can provide students with skills that support them in and out of the classroom. Some of the skills students will learn is leadership, problem solving skills, and teamwork strategies. Students will use these skills for the rest of the time they are in school, and will continue to use them in the work force, as positive collaboration is necessary to succeed in life. This model of teaching definitely poses as more comfortable for students who are outgoing, leaders, and/or strong in certain subjects, this model also challenges students to work outside their comfort zone. Due to this, the social interactive model relates heavily to cooperative learning between students. 

    In cooperative learning, students are placed in partnerships or groups to solve one single problem and completing tasks along the way. This type of learning is generally presented towards the end of a unit plan after teacher direction is scaffolded. Teacher guidance is much more prevalent in this type of learning method than direct instruction! In cooperative learning, students are required to solve problems and overcome obstacles together as a group. This type of learning creates the opportunity for multiple perspectives to be shared, equal opportunity for participation, and positive peer relationships. In many situations, students will be given a specific role to play-out while completing their project, which enhances the idea of equal participation and opportunity. 

    The social interactive model and cooperative learning go hand-in-hand, as they both describe the way in which students work together to complete a project. This type of instruction and learning is very popular throughout schools and also very beneficial, not just academically, but students learn real-life skills.