How can you overcome challenges when using cooperative learning online?

1 Choose the right tools

The first step to overcome challenges when using cooperative learning online is to choose the right tools for your activities. You need to consider the type of interaction, the level of complexity, and the accessibility of the tools. For example, if you want to have a synchronous discussion, you may use a video conferencing platform, such as Zoom or Google Meet. If you want to have an asynchronous collaboration, you may use a document sharing platform, such as Google Docs or Padlet. Make sure that the tools are easy to use, reliable, and compatible with different devices and browsers.

2 Establish clear guidelines

The second step to overcome challenges when using cooperative learning online is to establish clear guidelines for your students. You need to explain the purpose, the expectations, and the outcomes of the cooperative learning activities. You also need to provide specific instructions on how to use the tools, how to communicate with each other, and how to manage their time and tasks. You may create a rubric or a checklist to help your students monitor their progress and evaluate their performance. You may also model or demonstrate the cooperative learning process and provide examples of good practices.

3 Monitor and support

The third step to overcome challenges when using cooperative learning online is to monitor and support your students throughout the activities. You need to check in regularly with your students and provide feedback, guidance, and encouragement. You may use different methods to monitor and support your students, such as surveys, quizzes, polls, chat messages, emails, or video calls. You may also create a space for your students to ask questions, share concerns, and seek help from you or their peers. You may also invite your students to reflect on their cooperative learning experience and share their feedback with you.

4 Foster positive interdependence

The fourth step to overcome challenges when using cooperative learning online is to foster positive interdependence among your students. Positive interdependence means that your students feel that they are connected, responsible, and accountable to each other. You can foster positive interdependence by designing cooperative learning activities that require your students to work together, share resources, exchange ideas, and support each other. You can also assign roles, tasks, and goals to your students that are complementary and interrelated. You can also encourage your students to celebrate their achievements and appreciate their contributions.

5 Promote individual accountability

The fifth step to overcome challenges when using cooperative learning online is to promote individual accountability among your students. Individual accountability means that your students are responsible for their own learning and contribution to the group. You can promote individual accountability by assessing your students' individual and group work, and providing them with constructive feedback. You can also ask your students to self-assess and peer-assess their work, and to justify their choices and actions. You can also reward your students for their efforts and improvements, and help them identify their strengths and weaknesses.

6 Build social presence

The sixth step to overcome challenges when using cooperative learning online is to build social presence among your students. Social presence means that your students feel that they are part of a real and meaningful community of learners. You can build social presence by creating opportunities for your students to interact, socialize, and bond with each other. You can also use icebreakers, games, and humor to create a positive and friendly atmosphere. You can also use emoticons, emojis, gifs, and memes to express emotions and add personality. You can also use audio and video to enhance communication and engagement.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?