Utilizing Cooperative Learning in Economics: Strategies for Effective Learning

In order to deviate from the traditional lecture, professors learn of the plethora of alternative styles of instructional delivery.  Whether face-to-face, group, simulation, online, etc., it is imperative to look at the options available for today’s students.  The American Economic Association (AEA) encourages such activity through a number of ways, including the use of a grant offered from the National Science Foundation.    As a result of this grant, plenty of experiments have been conducted in various classes so as to explore alternatives to lecture.  One such example is cooperative learning where students adapt a shared approach to the learning process.  With several years of experience along with a completed program offered through the AEA, information will be shared pertaining to the many similarities and differences between cooperative learning and lecture.  When used properly, results will show that cooperative learning can be a great supplement (or substitute) for the traditional lecture.