Learning Mathematics Through Collaboration

Mathematics is often perceived as a difficult subject by many students. This challenge is not only experienced by EBPP students, but also by learners in schools around the world. Such perceptions can negatively affect students’ motivation, participation, and confidence in the learning process. When students feel that mathematics is intimidating, they tend to become passive and disengaged in the classroom.

To address this issue, I have increasingly implemented cooperative learning models in my mathematics classes. This approach encourages students to actively participate and build their understanding through collaboration, discussion, and peer support. Two cooperative learning strategies that I frequently use are Student Teams Achievement Divisions (STAD) and Think Pair Share (TPS). In STAD, students work in small, diverse groups to achieve shared learning goals, helping one another to understand concepts and solve problems together. Meanwhile, TPS allows students to think independently, discuss their ideas with a partner, and then share their thoughts with the class, creating a supportive environment for learning.

The implementation of these models has transformed the classroom atmosphere into a more interactive and enjoyable space. Learning becomes more meaningful as students feel comfortable expressing their ideas and asking questions. I have also observed positive changes in students’ attitudes. Those who were initially tense and passive have become more relaxed, confident, and willing to engage actively in mathematical tasks.

By: Ponirin, M.Pd, Maths Teacher