Collaborative Learning Argumentative Analysis

1853 Words8 Pages

According to Arkoudis and Tran (2007), writing as a form of thinking is fundamental for academic success of students. Hyland (2007) maintains that the ability to be able to sustain an argument and synthesize ideas to write in proper English sentence for the purpose of academic success is a tedious chore for students. The non-native speakers of English tend to face difficulties with grammar, lexis and syntax (Rose, 1985). The language errors tend to create a negative impression (Loewy & Yogi 2000). These non-native English speaking students face various obstacles when they encounter the rigors of writing (Bronson, 2004). According to Leki (2007) writing is known to be a burden due to its extensive writing regulations.
Most of the students identify …show more content…

In a Collaborative Learning setting, each individual is given a specific role to play in their groups. When this structural opportunity is provided, it helps learners to collaborate to reach a common objective. This is where the Collaborative approach differs from traditional approach. A traditional classroom setting is more confined to a competitive environment (Kessler, 2003). Individual performances do not necessarily affect each other since learners learn on their own. How an individual performs depends on how much effort is put in by him/her. Therefore there is no positive or negative effects on one person because of the other’s performance. This strategy requires learners to work as groups or pairs to achieve a learning task (Colbeck et al, 2000).In the collaborative writing class, students work together to achieve a common goal. Although students are of different learning abilities each one is responsible for his /her own learning as well as for the other members of the group. Each individual should be accountable for the success of the entire group. Other important elements are positive interdependence, ability to use collaborative skills and also interaction skills. During a collaborative writing process, students are able to hone their interactive skills, leadership skills as well as develop their leadership skills (Bean, 2001).In a collaborative setting, students will be able to interact with peers, give opinions and argue as well as challenge ideas of other

Open Document