Conceptualizing collaborative teaching and learning in technical and vocational education and training institutions: a psychological science perspective

Abstract

Whatever the teaching strategy, it is advisable to incorporate questions and answers, discussions, hands-on activities, and other ways of getting learners actively involved in the learning of the content. Students learn best when they are actively involved in the learning experience. Practical oriented subjects in Technical and Vocational Education and Training(TVET) lend themselves easily to hands-on activities, but it can be a challenge in social sciences subjects such as sociology and psychology. Whereas one should try to avoid lecturing for lengthy periods, it is very important to listen to the learners and allow them to become aware of the content in order to construct knowledge as opposed to trying to "teach" them knowledge. Thus, feedback should be provided before any type of evaluation is administered.Collaborative learning, also referred to as group learning or cooperative learning has clear benefits for student in terms of retention of information, critical thinking and consolidation of learning from different parts of a programme. Groups provide opportunities for learning that are difficult to establish in traditional settings. They are particularly useful to enable learners to take part in discussion, active participation, feedback and reflection, and to consolidate learning, clarify understanding, and explore ideas and concepts. Depending on the purpose and nature of the group, group learning can also help to develop ‘transferable’ skills, such as study skills, communication skills, teamwork, problem solving and personal development. Teaching and Learning in groups has a valuable part to play in the all-round education of students. It allows them to negotiate meanings, to express themselves in the language of the subject, and to establish more intimate contact with academic staff than more formal methods permit. It also develops the more instrumental skills of listening, presenting ideas and persuading. This paper conceptualizes the meaning, purpose and strength of collaborative work in teaching and learning as opposed to traditional teaching and learning.