LEVERAGING COOPERATIVE LEARNING TO PROMOTE ALTERNATIVE ASSESSMENT IN EDUCATION
Keywords:
cooperative learning, alternative assessment, peer evaluation, group collaboration, service-learning, positive interdependence, individual accountability, authentic evaluation, student-centered pedagogyAbstract
In contemporary educational contexts, conventional assessment approaches frequently fail to encompass the multifaceted dimensions of student achievement. This paper examines the integration of cooperative learning—a structured collaborative methodology—as a mechanism to support alternative assessment practices, including portfolios, peer evaluations, projects, presentations, and reflective exercises. Drawing on foundational principles such as positive interdependence and individual accountability, this synergy transforms assessment into a dynamic, inclusive process that fosters deeper cognitive engagement, equity, and interpersonal competencies. The discussion extends to incorporating service-learning, creating a comprehensive framework that links academic goals with civic responsibility. Practical strategies, examples, and implementation considerations are provided, highlighting benefits supported by empirical research while addressing potential challenges.
Downloads
References
Johnson, D. W., & Johnson, R. T. (2009). An educational psychology success story: Social interdependence theory and cooperative learning. Educational Researcher, 38(5), 365–379.
Johnson, D. W., Johnson, R. T., & Holubec, E. J. (1994). Cooperative learning in the classroom. Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development.
Furco, A. (1996). Service-learning: A balanced approach to experiential education. In Expanding boundaries: Serving and learning. Cooperative Education Association.
Khodjakulova, F.R. “Using cooperative learning to facilitate alternative assessment”. Garmonichno razvitoye pokoleniye-usloviye stabilnogo razvitiya respubliki Uzbekistan. Sbornik nauchno-metodicheskix statyey. № 5, Aprel ,2019.
Gillies, R. M. (2016). Cooperative learning: Review of research and practice. Australian Journal of Teacher Education, 41(3), 39–54.
Slavin, R. E. (2015). Cooperative learning in elementary schools. Education 3-13, 43(1), 5–14.