FTCE Professional Education Practice Exam

An instructional strategy in which students work in small, peer-assisted groups is known as?

1. Direct instruction

2. Cooperative learning

3. Independent study

4. Whole group instruction

The correct answer is: Cooperative learning

The correct answer is cooperative learning, which is an instructional strategy that emphasizes collaboration among students within small groups. In cooperative learning, students work together to achieve shared learning goals, engaging in discussions and problem-solving activities that enhance their understanding of the material. This approach encourages interpersonal skills, builds teamwork, and fosters a sense of community in the classroom. Cooperative learning also allows students to learn from one another, tapping into diverse perspectives and skills, which can deepen their overall comprehension and retention of the subject matter. The structured nature of these groups typically involves defined roles for each member, promoting accountability and active participation from all students involved. This method is in contrast to other instructional strategies such as direct instruction, where the teacher leads the learning process with a focus on delivering information. Independent study prioritizes solo work, and whole group instruction involves the teacher addressing the entire class simultaneously without the small group dynamics typical of cooperative learning.