A siamese fighting fish learning unit for cooperative learning among primary students

Abstract

The study focused on the effects of the cooperative learning on students’ achievement. A learning unit on the fighting fish living process was used as a case study. The participants, 30 grade-4 students, were randomly divided into five groups of six students each. A learning center on fighting fish was established and equipped with learning resources in the school. Students worked together in each topic which differed from group to group. After the activity each group shared their findings to the class. Following extensive discussion all students were expected to gain knowledge from both in-group activity and activities of other groups. For the overall knowledge gained, the students were assessed both individually and as a group. The results showed improvement in the level of knowledge of the students from the first week to the third week. Results from their mind maps indicated that almost all students were able to conceptualize about various aspects of the life of the fighting fish. This can be explained by the self-accountability of individual students as well as their responsibility for the achievement of their friends. The students showed positive attitude toward the cooperative learning.