Cooperative Learning Example
Send-a-Problem

Send-A-Problem
Send-A-Problem can be used to promote discussion and review material, or create possible solutions to content. The problems can be generated by the teacher or by the groups.

1) In small groups, members each generate a problem and write it down on a recipe card or 4 x 6 piece of paper. Each group member then asks their question to the other members.
2) If all group members can reach consensus on the answer, that answer is then written on the back of the card. If there is no consensus, the question is revised so that an answer can be agreed upon.
3) The writer puts a Q on the side of the card with the question, and an A on the side of the card with an answer.
4) This is done for each group member’s question.
5) The group exchanges question cards with another group.
6) Each group member takes one card from the new stack. Taking turns, the questions are read, discussed, and a solution is agreed upon. They turn the card over to see if they agree with the first group's answer. If there is consensus, they proceed to the next question. If they do not agree with the first group's answer, they write their answer on the answer side of the card as an alternative answer.
7) Procedure is repeated until all cards have been shared. Question cards can be exchanged again if desired.
8) Card stacks are sent back to the originating group who then discuss and clarify any questions.
Variation: use this process to discuss a real problem for which there may be no one set answer. Each group explores a different problem and its solution. Solutions are written on separate papers so that other groups do not see the solutions of previous groups. Upon the last exchange, the group reviews all the solutions from other groups and creates a prioritized list of the solutions to share.

* Adapted with permission from Kagan Publishing. Kagan, Spencer. Cooperative Learning. San Clemente, CA: Kagan Publishing, 1994. www.KaganOnline.com

Cooperative Learning Examples