Investigating the Impact of Cooperative Learning on Students’ Problem Solving Skills

Abstract

Some skills such as critical thinking, collaboration and problem solving, are very important for students. It is estimated that implementing cooperative learning helps students develop problem solving skills. Therefore, this study was conducted to investigate the impact of cooperative learning on students’ problem solving skills. It also attempts to discover the strategies EFL teachers use to help their students improve their abilities to solve problems. To achieve the purpose of this study, a quantitative method was applied. Two questionnaires were administered to both teachers, working at different secondary schools, and twenty- two second year scientific stream students, studying at Yesbaa Brothers secondary school in Chellalat El Adhaoura. Based on the results, it can be stated that cooperative learning positively affects students’ problem solving skills, and helps them develop these abilities. It is also revealed that teachers implement strategies such as the jigsaw and think, pair, share