FTCE Professional Education Practice Exam

Which instructional strategy facilitates learning through small, peer-assisted groups?

1. Collaborative learning

2. Cooperative learning

3. Independent learning

4. Mentor-led learning

The correct answer is: Cooperative learning

The instructional strategy that best facilitates learning through small, peer-assisted groups is collaborative learning. This approach emphasizes interaction among students as they work together to achieve a common goal or complete a task. In collaborative learning, students engage in dialogue, share perspectives, negotiate meaning, and work collectively to enhance their understanding of the subject matter. In contrast, cooperative learning, while similar, often involves students working in structured groups with clearly defined roles and responsibilities, contributing to a shared outcome. This method allows for individual accountability and positive interdependence among group members. Although cooperative learning does involve peer assistance, it is more structured than what is typically characterized by collaborative learning. Independent learning focuses on students working alone, taking responsibility for their own learning without group interaction, which doesn't fit the criteria of learning through small, peer-assisted groups. Lastly, mentor-led learning involves a more experienced individual guiding another, rather than a peer-assisted model. Each of these other strategies serves different educational purposes, but the essence of small, peer-supported teamwork shines through the concept of collaborative learning.