Collaborative Learning-An Effective Method for Teaching Native Arabic Speaker
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Authors
Mathew, Reena
Issue Date
2014-05-15
Type
Conference Paper
Language
Keywords
Alternative Title
Abstract
Native Arabic speaking students of the Gulf
Middle East region are descendants of tribes and nomadic
families which may be a possible reason why they are
social constructivists when it comes to learning. Most
prefer a learning environment in which they are actively
engaged learners within a group. Native Arabic speaking
students are social so best benefit from collaborative
learning methods in particular from cooperative learning.
Collaborative learning is an educational approach that
involves groups of learners working together to solve a
problem, complete a task, or create a product. (Lejeune,
1999). Cooperative Learning is a teaching arrangement
that refers to small, heterogeneous groups of students
working together to achieve a common goal
(Kagan,1994). According to Vygotsky’sSocial Development
Theory; social interaction plays a fundamental role in the
process of cognitive development. The purpose of this
paper is to illustrate why collaborative learning is an
effective teaching method in language education with non- native English speakers (with focus on native Arabic
speakers). Collaborative and cooperative learning styles
are effective in the ESL classroom with native Arabic
speakers because it helps students to share ideas,
stimulates critical thinking, helps students to take control
and invest in their learning with structural guidance from
their teachers, teachers take the role of learners, students
can become teachers, and every student gets to be an equal
participant in the given task. Collaborative learning is also
an effective teaching style that promotes social skills
amongst students that can be used both in the classroom
and outside in natural situations. It helps introverted
students feel more confident about socializing with their
peers. When I divide my students into groups or pairs using
collaborative or cooperative learning styles; work is done
with deeper concentration along with higher critical
thinking skills.