High individual accountability did not show significant positive effects on learning when compared with cooperative reward conditions. (JD)

Described is a teaching approach that applies principles of cooperative learning to an individualized program for learning mathematics in grades 3-6. The program, Team Assisted Individualization, has several important elements including student teams, a placement test, curriculum materials, the team-study method, team scores and team recognition,…

Research overwhelmingly supports the usefulness of cooperative learning for improving the social outcomes of schooling, such as intergroup relations, attitudes toward mainstreamed students, and general positive relations between students. (Author)

Reports several field experimental research studies which tested the effects of group and individual incentive structures and tasks on individual academic achievement. The positive effects of cooperative learning methods result from the use of cooperative incentives, not cooperative tasks, apparently due to change in peer norms. (CB)