Cooperative learning emphasizes task over process and the educator is in control. Collaborative learners work together to construct understanding, and the educator establishes an environment for shared exploration. Transformative group learning involves critical reflection, facilitated by the educator, for individual or social change. (SK)

Examines selected aspects of the theory and practice of learning in groups; discusses how the history of groups in adult education has influenced perspectives about learning in groups; considers the nature of learning in groups; and discusses power and the role of the facilitator. (JOW)

Recounts one teacher's experience at unsuccessfully solving spatial problems in a workshop experimenting with individualistic and cooperative learning approaches to problem solving. This humbling experience reminded the author that failure is humiliating and can arise from simply not knowing how to think about a task. All humans are "at-risk"…

Using small learning groups in graduate education is a way to prepare learners to meet the challenges they face as professionals and to enrich and facilitate adult learning in ways that cannot be accomplished as well by members working alone. This technique also helps graduate students develop the skills needed to work productively as group…

The author reflects on her personal experience of networked learning using the approach of personal inquiry, addressing the issue of identity and presenting herself online; experience of participating in the formation of the learning group; and experience using this medium of communication. This is followed with a theoretical exploration which…

Discusses the proper uses of new technologies for higher education. Topics include: the need to develop new educational strategies, adult learners and distance education, prior learning, understanding material and being able to apply it, reexamining teaching methods, the use of electronic mail and computer conferencing, and the need for…

Stephen Brookfield has written and edited 10 books on adult learning, teaching, and critical thinking. He is a recipient of a number of awards, including the World Award for Literature in Adult Education (in 1986, 1989, 1996, and 2005), the Imogene Okes Award for Outstanding Research in Adult Education (in 1986), and the Leadership Award from the…

This booklet is compiled from all the Adult Learning Australia (ALA) Commentaries produced in 2000. Emailed to ALA members each week, ALA Commentaries are written by people in the field of adult learning in the broadest sense, usually in Australia, sometimes overseas, and designed to stimulate discussion. ALA hosts an online discussion forum about…