Cooperative Learning and the Development of Constructivism amongst Undergraduate Students of the University of Bamenda
Keywords:
Cooperative Learning, Constructivism, group processing, positive interdependenceAbstract
Cooperative learning has been hypothesized to promote constructivism in the classroom. This study aimed at investigating the influence of cooperative learning on the development of constructivism in learners. The researcher sought to provide answers to two vital research questions, stated, taking into cognizance the indicators of cooperative learning. These research questions are: 1) How does Positive interdependence influence the development of constructivism in learners?; 2) How does effective group processing influence the development of constructivism in learners? Tchombe’s Mediated Mutual Reciprocity Theory and Vygotsky’s theory of Social Constructivism provided the theoretical starting point for this research. A descriptive survey design was considered necessary whereby close ended questionnaires in a Likert scale format were given to 75 students randomly selected from some schools and faculties of The University of Bamenda. Data were analyzed by using simple frequencies and percentages. Findings of the study revealed that positive interdependence promotes constructivism in learners. It was also revealed that effective group procession promotes constructivism amongst undergraduate students.
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