Collaborative Learning is a perfect solution. But what is it exactly?

collaborative

/kəˈlabərətɪv/

adjective
produced by or involving two or more parties working together. “collaborative learning”

Its more effective to learn with other people than to learn alone!

Collaborative Learning is an umbrella term used for a variety of learning approaches involving learners and trainers together, working in small groups searching to understand solutions or meanings, or creating something new.  Collaborative Learning activities can vary widely, however, most centre on learners’ exploring and applying the course material, not just the trainer’s presentation. It’s a practical method of learning that is interactive, and utilises the team environment.

Why Use Collaborative Learning?  

Research shows educational experiences which are active, social, contextual, engaging, and student-owned lead to deeper learning with better understanding and retention. In particular, the benefits of collaborative learning include the development of higher-level thinking, oral communication, self-management, and leadership skills.

Collaboration improves the way teams works together to solve challenges or problems.  This leads to innovation, efficient processes, improved communication and teamwork, and ultimately increased success. Through listening to and learning from other team members, learners help each in their personal development and reach their goals.

This represents a significant shift away from the typical standard classroom learning.  The learning processes are based on discussion, case studies, real situations, and active work, along with the complimentary course material.
Rather than just learning the theory, this is all about applying knowledge and skills to real situations.

Collaborative Learning Approaches

Collaborative Learning covers a broad range of approaches with variability in the amount of in-class and out-of-class time built around group work.  Activities can range from classroom discussions interspersed with theoretical and practical exercises, including the use of videos to demonstrate key points.

Developing interpersonal skills is as important as the learning itself.  Learning tasks are put to students covering both academic and social skills objectives.  Strategies involve assigning roles within small groups.  This enables students to practice different teamwork skills.

Blended Learning

• Digital Training
• Virtual Coaching
• Live Courses
• Challenges

You can start with Digital Training which you can complete anywhere, anytime, in bite size chunks, including inter-active exercises, videos and explanations.  Practice what you learn and if you have any questions or concerns, join Virtual Coaching sessions with other students and experts, working with you, collaborating, and mentoring to resolve challenges.

Live Courses include students working with an expert trainer in small groups, dealing with both theory and practice.  Challenging exercises to work upon with group members, playing different roles, and given certain tasks to complete before presenting their findings to the rest of the group.

With collaborative learning:

• Create complex learning activities
• Prepare students to be part of a team
• Establish group goals
• Build trust and promote open communication
• Build in opportunities for discussion and consensus
• Strengthen and stretch expertise
• Create challenging tests

Klass Academy offers Collaborative Learning, approved and accredited by NCFE.

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Would you like to know more about these techniques?

Register to our Credit Management Training London, 14-16th September 2022

Contact steve.savva@klassacademy.com for details or call +44 (0) 7881 805615