In the context of cooperative learning, what aspect is least emphasized?

In cooperative learning, the emphasis is placed on group interdependence and collective responsibility among students. This pedagogical approach fosters collaboration, encouraging students to work together towards common goals, which enriches their learning experience.

While collaboration among students is central to the process, and social and behavioral goals are often integral to developing skills like communication and teamwork, independence from group members is not aligned with the fundamental principles of cooperative learning. In fact, the success of cooperative learning typically relies on the idea that each member's contributions are interlinked and that students help and rely on one another to achieve shared objectives.

Moreover, mixed ability groupings are often utilized to ensure that diverse skill sets and perspectives contribute to the group's learning, enhancing the educational experience for all participants. Therefore, emphasizing collaboration, social interaction, and using mixed ability groups are key characteristics of cooperative learning, while independence undermines the cooperative nature of this teaching method.