Collaborative Learning Versus Peer Learning

Collaborative learning is one where students work in small groups to discuss concepts and find solutions to problems.

Peer learning essentially refers to students learning with and from each other as fellow learners without any implied authority to any individual, based on the tenet that Students learn a great deal by explaining their ideas to others and by participating in activities in which they can learn from their peers Collaborative learning is learning with each other. Peer-to-peer learning is learning from each other.

Both the concepts were introduced as teaching tools to enhance learning among students of class VC and B. The chapter 'Clever Somu' was attempted with the help of the Peer Learning technique. Aadya Sharma, Jasleen Kaur, Vatsal Srivastava, Parth Sehra, Jayant and Navyugta Bisht prepared the chapter using technology, to present in the form of a PPT to the class thus enabling them to explain better and the class to understand better. 'Rats Feast', a script for a play written by Rabindra Nath Tagore was assimilated understood by the children in a collaborative way, where the entire class was divided in groups of 10 to play the role of each character in the play and explain the same to the others while trying to understand for themselves. It was collaborative because they did not get any preparation time, it was extempore. Input was given continuously by the learners as well as teachers.

Across both techniques: Students develop their higher-level thinking, oral communication, self-management, and leadership skills. Student-teacher interactions are boosted. Student self-esteem and responsibility increase. Students are exposed to diverse perspectives and increase their understanding of them.

Ms. Vandana Tewari.