Link to Laura Candler's File Cabinet on Cooperative Learning: Cooperative learning is a powerful teaching strategy that's more than just a passing fad. Research has shown that when implemented properly, students in cooperative learning classrooms outperform their peers in traditional classrooms. The key is knowing how to implement the strategies to foster interaction while making sure all students are held accountable. Dr. Spencer Kagan developed the "structural" approach to cooperative learning, and I've found it to be extremely effective. I highly recommend his book Cooperative Learning which is available from Amazon.com.