Scientific research on learning has shown that small group learning (compared to competitive and individualistic learning) improves academic performance, relationships with classmates and faculty, and promotes psychological well-being. One advantage of learning in a small group is that it can offer a more flexible learning curriculum. When the teacher has the ability to know each of his students personally, study patterns are formed. Working in small groups gives students the opportunity to practice higher-order thinking skills that instructors love to teach.
Students who work in small groups generally learn more from the material and retain their knowledge longer than students who don't (Davis, 199.Small group work can range from short, informal exercises to formalized problem sets that make up the bulk of the class. Contrary to popular belief, instructors can incorporate small group work into large conferences, as well as seminars and discussion sections. Here we have compiled examples of small group exercises that range from informal to formal and that work well with a variety of class sizes. Help address student knowledge gaps Foster.
