Kagan Cooperative Learning FAQ's

Berkley school is very privileged and excited to be one of a very select number of Kagan Model Schools in the state of Florida!  That means that our staff members receive intensive and continual training on the use and refinement of Kagan Cooperative Learning structures and we open our school to other educators to come and observe those structures in our classrooms. 

What is cooperative learning?
Cooperative learning is when the students work together towards a learning goal. They may be working with their partner, their table, or the whole class.
Why use Kagan cooperative learning?
Kagan cooperative learning has been the most heavily studied cooperative learning program. Kagan continues to show success in cooperative learning because of their set structures which rely on individual accountability in the cooperative learning groups, which is something that is extremely important in order for cooperative learning to succeed.
What are Kagan cooperative learning structures?
Kagan structures are set cooperative learning activities that have specific steps to ensure that students work together effectively and productively, and have individual accountability within the group. Berkley teachers adapt the structures to each individual lesson and put them right into their lesson plans. class building structures work on strengthening the class' unity. Team building structures strengthen the individual team's ability to work together and to help each other reach a common team goal.
What are the benefits to using Kagan cooperative learning?
There are many well documented and researched benefits to Kagan cooperative learning.
Academic Benefits:
It promotes critical thinking.
It involves students actively in the learning process.
Classroom results are improved.
It models appropriate student problem solving techniques.
Large lectures can be personalized.
It is especially helpful in motivating students in specific curriculum.
It develops learning communities. 
Psychological Benefits:
Student centered instruction increases students' self esteem.
Cooperation reduces anxiety.
It helps develop positive attitudes towards teachers.

Kagan cooperative learning drastically reduces negative behavior. Students are taught how to positively interact with each other through cooperative learning and are taught to offer their partner/group praise when they get an answer right. 

If you have any questions about Kagan cooperative learning or you would like to arrange a tour to view Kagan in action, contact the school and we will be glad to help you.