Using Cooperative Learning to Develop Language Competence and Social Skills

Present findings prove the effectiveness of CL in producing greater gains in academic and social outcomes. The positive effects of the cooperative learning paradigm are impressive. But despite its widespread recognition and appreciation, CL remains an instructional strategy seldom used in a systematic manner by practitioners in most schools and universities. The following fact encouraged the authors of this study to examine educational opportunities of CL while teaching foreign languages. The research methodology has been based on humanistic philosophy and cognitive theory related to a constructivism principal which recognizes education as an active process. The study presents both theoretical and practical considerations of CL strategies. The focus is on essential components of CL activities as well as on factors determining the effectiveness of various CL structures. The article analyses the most effective CL techniques being applied in the foreign language classroom disclosing their content and effect on social skills development and foreign language proficiency. A small empirical experiment carried out at the Lithuanian University of Agriculture while teaching master students proves CL advantages over traditional education. The article offers the following conclusions: CL is a way of helping students be more successful in university. But CL does more than that; it is also a way to help students prepare for careers and lives in the real world. Even in todays competitive climate, it is hard to imagine something that does not require cooperation, collegiality, and teamwork.