The key elements of cooperative learning are as follows:

Groups are formed and are made up of diverse (mixed abilities) learners. These groups may remain together over a period of time to develop a support system, or they may be changed frequently.

Positive interdependence is structured through shared goals and rewards. This means that learners take responsibility for their own learning as well as the learning of other group members. Learners must work together for the group to be successful. They are taught specific skills to help them work well together, such as active listening, giving good explanations, avoiding insults, and including other people.

Management systems are introduced to increase group learning. Class rules are important in making clear the teacher’s expectations. Rules also establish the routines for distribution of materials so that there is little disruption. Having a system in place increases productivity and when goals are set for the whole class, classroom management is more effective. For example, the teacher may have a system for the distribution and collection of materials. In this system, the different groups are given different responsibilities, like one group gives out books while another group is responsible for giving out other materials to be used. Each group is allocated a colour and the teacher indicates which group is to have a turn on a weekly basis by putting up the group colour. The group must also have a system to ensure that everyone in the group is given a task.

The room is arranged to make it possible to have small group activities. Remember, the arrangement of the classroom determines the learners’ focus of attention. If the class is arranged in rows with learners facing the front, then their attention is usually focused on the teacher. Rearranging the class for cooperative learning activities allows for more face-to-face interaction between learners.

Learners are taught skills necessary to cooperate and to teach one another. This training may include social skills development, for example learning to express approval or compliment, or it may involve other skills such as explaining and discussing.

The structure of each cooperative learning activity is chosen to match the goal of the lesson. Activities may be designed to build teams, exchange information, master content, develop social skills or to use higher level thinking skills.