Cooperative Language Learning General Concepts of Method

2.2.2 General Concepts of Method

Methods of language teaching have been changed from time to time. According to Richards 1986:1, changes in language teaching methods throughout history have reflected recognition of changes in the kind of proficiency learners need. In this study, I concern in Cooperative Language Learning CLL which is part of a more general instructional approach also known as Collaborative Learning CL.

2.2.2.1 Cooperative Language Learning

Cooperative learning is a successful teaching strategy in which small teams, each with students of different levels of ability, use a variety of learning activities to improve their understanding of a subject. Each member of a team is responsible not only for learning what is taught but also for helping teammates learn, thus creating an atmosphere of achievement. Students work through the assignment until all group members successfully understand and complete it. http:edtech.kennesaw.eduintechcooperativelearning.htm Cooperative learning may be a good approach to be applied in teaching and learning process. It will lead students to be cooperative and have mutual benefit. Research has shown that cooperative learning techniques: 1 promote students learning and academic achievement, 2 increase students retention, 3 enhance students satisfaction with their learning experience, 4 help students develop skills in oral communication, 5 develop students social skills, 6 promote student self-esteem, and 7 help to promote positive race relations. http:edtech.kennesaw.eduintechcooperativelearning.htm Nunan 1992:1 adds that “In language education, teachers, learners, researchers, and curriculum specialist can collaborate for a number of reasons. They may wish to experiment with alternative ways of organizing teaching and learning; they may be concerned with promoting a philosophy of cooperation rather than competition; they may wish to create an environment in which learners, teachers, and researchers are learning from each other in an equitable way.”

2.2.2.2 Pairs Check as One of Approaches of Cooperative Language Learning