FTCE Professional Education Practice Exam

What type of learning involves students working together on tasks defined and explained by the instructor?

1. Reciprocal teaching

2. Cooperative learning

3. Project-based learning

4. Individualized instruction

The correct answer is: Cooperative learning

Cooperative learning is an instructional strategy where students work together in small groups to complete tasks, understand concepts, or solve problems. The key characteristic of cooperative learning is that students engage in collaborative efforts, supporting each other's learning while working towards a common goal. This structure typically involves positive interdependence, where each member's contribution is crucial to the success of the group. In this approach, the tasks are defined and explained by the instructor, ensuring that students understand their objectives and the expectations for collaboration. This setup not only promotes social skills and teamwork but also allows students to learn from one another, enhancing their overall understanding. In contrast, reciprocal teaching focuses on specific reading strategies and involves a more guided interaction between the teacher and students. Project-based learning emphasizes student-driven investigations over an extended period, often leading to a tangible product rather than structured teamwork around a common set of tasks. Individualized instruction targets the unique learning needs of each student, which does not emphasize collaboration among peers. Thus, cooperative learning is the most fitting description for the scenario where students work together on tasks defined and explained by the instructor.