A Jigsaw Classroom

With only five computers in a classroom, it can get challenging to teach children needed computer skills. This is where the Jigsaw method comes into play. A great way to use the computers in this way would be to split the classroom into five groups. Then assign each student something to learn about a certain feature of a word processor. If you were using Microsoft Word you could split it up into areas such as creating a table, inserting a picture, using Word Art, how to create columns, inserting a text box, etc. Each student would spend time at the computer individually, learning their important task. Then, all the students who were assigned the same task would come together as "experts" and practice showing the other kids in their groups how what they are doing works. Then they would go back to their groups and explain each step they used to their group.

There are many positive aspects to this method. One is that it can be very time efficient if you only have five computers for your entire classroom. It also allows the students to interact with each other in a positive manner. Each student has a very important part in the group, which means that each student feels important. This will help encourage them to participate and also feel good about their participation. This also allows students the opportunity to learn and teach. When they are teaching their other classmates it can be an encouraging experience because they feel like they are helping someone else in a way they couldn't help themselves.

Although there are many good things about the Jigsaw method, there are some disadvantages. One of these would be the fact that some students struggle in learning. They could be slow learners or have a hard time learning things on the computer. These students would need extra time to succeed in the task given them. Another disadvantage of doing this with computers is the fact that you would need to have another activity to do while their classmates are learning their particular part of the project. This would take extra time and effort. You wouldn't want to introduce something new while other students are on the computers.

The Jigsaw method is a great method to use in classrooms with or without diversity. The benefits of cooperative learning are huge and will be transferred to other tasks. It will show the students that not everything in a classroom is competition, cooperating could actually be a good thing. Getting the students involved in their own learning will create an atmosphere of creativity and friendship.