As a progressive school, how do we enhance student collaboration in the classroom?
In a progressive school, enhancing student classroom collaboration methods is pivotal for nurturing critical thinking, communication skills, and a sense of community. Student collaboration techniques go beyond traditional group work, requiring a thoughtful approach to curriculum design, classroom environment, and teacher-student interactions.
Fostering a collaborative classroom starts with curriculum design. While most good schools in Bengalore initiate collaborative approaches to engage students in positive learning outcomes, we at The Shri Ram Universal School, have been enhancing student learning by incorporating collaborative learning where students work in groups to explore real-world problems and create solutions which not only engages students in meaningful tasks but also requires them to negotiate roles, share responsibilities, and integrate diverse perspectives. We at Shri Ram, believe that the physical layout of the classroom plays a significant role in promoting collaboration. The classrooms are arranged to facilitate group work, with desks arranged in clusters rather than traditional rows. This setup encourages students to communicate easily and share resources. Additionally, having dedicated spaces for collaborative activities, such as a project corner or a discussion area, can further support this aim.
In addition to that, teachers must adopt a facilitative rather than directive role. In Shri Ram the teacher acts as a guide, helping students navigate their learning journey. This involves encouraging student-led discussions, where learners pose questions, share ideas, and build upon each other’s contributions. The facilitators have modelled effective classroom collaboration methods and skills by demonstrating active listening, respectful dialogue, and constructive feedback.
Creating a culture of respect and inclusion is essential. Collaboration thrives in an environment where students feel valued and heard. Good schools in Bengalore can implement social-emotional learning programs to help students develop empathy, conflict resolution skills, and an appreciation for diverse viewpoints. We at Shri Ram encourage a growth mindset, where mistakes are viewed as learning opportunities, and also support a collaborative culture by reducing the fear of judgement and promoting open communication.
Finally, leveraging technology can enhance collaboration in innovative ways. Online platforms and tools, such as collaborative documents, discussion forums, and digital storytelling apps, enable students to work together both in and out of the classroom. The Shri Ram Universal School at North Bengaluru consciously facilitates TED Talks and public speaking skills during their Talent Development Programmes. Besides this, we consciously engage children in higher order thinking skills during all the group discussions.
To be precise, we at Shri Ram believe that enhancing student collaboration involves a multifaceted approach, including thoughtful curriculum design, that is, Shri Way, conducive classroom environments, a culture of respect, and the strategic use of technology. By prioritising these elements, schools can create a collaborative atmosphere that prepares students for the interconnected world beyond the classroom to be global citizens.
