Fostering Learner Autonomy through Cooperative and Collaborative Learning

Abstract

Both cooperative and collaborative learning are learner-centered teaching approaches in English Language Teaching (ELT) to support active learning, shared learning, inductive learning, and autonomous learning. However, definitional and conceptual clarity of these two concepts did not receive as much attention as they deserve. As a result, these two terms are often confused, conflated or used interchangeably. This review paper critiqued the two terms by revealing their components, identifying their commonalities as well as variances, and explicating their theoretical bases and exploring their role in fostering learner autonomy. Searching and reviewing published literature were used to achieve the objectives of the study. The study perceived that cooperative learning is the educational technique that uses small groups of students guided by the teacher to benefit their individual and each other’s learning whereas collaborative learning is a philosophy of interaction of a learning group where people take responsibility for their own learning while recognizing their peers’ abilities and contributions. Both the approaches foster autonomous learning behavior where cooperative learning is considered the foundation stage for collaborative learning. This article will benefit current and future ELT practitioners and researchers of this emerging field of pedagogy by providing a clearer analyses of the terms and role in fostering learner autonomy.

The Pros and Cons of Integrating Collaborative Learning Into Lesson Plan Design

“…In conclusion, the pros of collaborative learning consist of providing team support, elevating social and public communication skills, promoting autonomous learning, enhancing interaction, motivation, confidence, and critical thinking, and enriching knowledge, insight, and experience of the students. These findings are relevant with results of research that have been previously conducted (Arta, 2018;Chowdhury, 2021;Du, 2021;Enama, 2021;Lan et al, 2007;Lizcano & Daza, 2019;Ozkara & Cakir, 2020;Pandey, 2022;Rao, 2019). These perspectives potentially bring better understanding on the use of collaborative learning in lesson plan design.…”

“…Regarding to Statement 6, the research subjects believe that collaborative learning promotes autonomous learning so that the subjects rely more on their individual and group efforts in designing lesson plan. Collaborative learning plays important role in fostering autonomous learning since it provides the students opportunity to learn and work together independently (Chowdhury, 2021). When the students are comfortable with being autonomous learners, the students will be more active in expanding their knowledge, skills, and experience.…”

Online learning and community engagement: Strategies for promoting inclusivity and collaboration in education

“…Encouraging teamwork and cooperation is essential for creating a collaborative learning environment where students feel empowered to collaborate, communicate, and share ideas openly. By establishing clear expectations and goals for collaboration, instructors can promote a culture of teamwork and cooperation where students work together towards common objectives, respect each other's contributions, and support each other's learning journey (Chowdhury, 2021). Moreover, fostering a sense of community and collective responsibility encourages students to collaborate not only on academic tasks but also on broader issues such as social justice, sustainability, and global citizenship.…”

Mathematical Modelling in Upper Primary School: Finding Relevance and Value for Others Outside School

“…According to Haara and Jenssen (2019), the pedagogical entrepreneurship approach has much in common with other approaches with a long tradition in schools, such as problem-based learning and project work, which opens for recognition of emphasis on cooperative learning elements such as positive interdependence, interaction, individual responsibility, appropriate use of social skills and group processing (e.g., Chowdhury, 2021;Johnson & Johnson, 2009). Cooperative learning is here recognized as an educational technique that uses small groups of students guided by the teacher to benefit their individual and each other's learning (Chowdhury, 2021). Furthermore, pedagogical entrepreneurship also has more unique characteristics, such as prioritizing the ability to see opportunities, working innovatively, and demonstrating some willingness to take risks (Lackéus, 2015).…”