Share Paper: The Virtual Jigsaw Method: Supporting Student Autonomy Through Computer Mediated Communication

  1. Leanne Roberts, Mercyhurst College, United States
Friday, October 28 1:30-1:50 PM Pavillion Ballroom D

Abstract: The Jigsaw Method (JM) is a collaborative strategy relying on peer-to-peer teaching. In this paper, a model for combining the Jigsaw Method with Computer Mediated Communication (CMC), both synchronous and asynchronous, will be presented. The concept of supported autonomy, a potential midpoint between individual and collaborative learning, will be addressed in connection with this use of CMC and the Virtual Jigsaw Method. Preservice teachers enrolled in an elementary literacy methods course participated in a Virtual Jigsaw to allow for virtual collaboration on a project with individual responsibility for the overall project grade. The design and facilitation of this model as ...