Cooperative Learning Approach in Engineering Physics Course

Abstract

The paper presents the use of cooperative learning incorporation in Engineering Physics course by using Jigsaw methodology for first year engineering students. Engineering Physics is the fundamental course and the fundamentals of this course are directly applicable in the majority branches of engineering. Therefore, a good understanding of this course is highly essential for better learning in higher classes. However, this is also one course which students find difficult to learn. In this regard, we observed that instead of traditional teaching methodology there is a need for implementing active learning methodologies for meaningful learning. The jigsaw technique is useful for self as well as peer learning, through the division of tasks among the students. The purpose of this study is to investigate the effects of this technique on the learning of students. It was observed that with the implementation of the jigsaw technique it increased student’s participation in classroom activities as well as they become considerate for self as well as their peers learning. In accordance with this the results obtained in terms of feedback and marks, we observed that this technique is more effective than the conventional teaching methods.