Evaluating the Cooperative Component in Cooperative Learning: A Quasi-Experimental Study

In this study, the authors employed a quasi-experimental research design to examine the efficacy of a cooperative learning pedagogy (i.e., think-pair-share exercises) integrated into sections of microeconomic principles. Materials, exercises, and assessment instruments for all study sections are identical except for the nature of the problem-solving process used for in-class practice problems. The results suggest that the treatment group of students engaging in think-pair-share problem-solving exercises performed no better on the Test of Understanding in College Economics (Saunders 1991) or overall course scores than students in a control group engaging in independent, in-class, problem solving. Similarly, no differences on measures of student interest, attitudes toward the subject, or other perceptions of the course or instructor emerge between the treatment and control groups.