Students’ Perceptions of Using Collaborative Learning as a Tool for Acquiring Writing Skills in University

Abstract

This paper examines students' perceptions of the use of group discussion as a collaborative learning tool among English-as-a-Second-language (ESL) learners when learning writing skills in university. Studies on collaborative learning have shown that group discussions enhance students' learning experiences and knowledge. Collaborative learning in the form of group discussions has encourages students to produce work that is creative as well as stimulate critical thinking. This form of learning further develops interpersonal skills and social relationships among students. Twenty-four university students divided into six groups were the respondents in this study. The data was collected using voice recorded transcriptions of a semi-structured interview session with each group after completing the collaborative learning activity. The transcriptions were then analysed qualitatively using the interpretative approach. The transcripts were read and reread until common ideas emerged that were then categorised and discussed under various themes. The results showed that students perceived that collaborative learning tended to help them reflect on the content and context of the tasks they had to carry out. This form of learning was perceived to increase their confidence and motivation to communicate with their peers in a second language, and there were higher rates of task completion.

Research on the Influence of Collaborative Learning among Bachelor of Education (Management) Students in University of Cape Coast, Ghana

“…This suggests that kids are willing to join organizations regardless of the circumstances (Sedhu, Choy, & Lee, 2015). As a result, students are more inclined to establish groups with their peers, regardless of their social, emotional, or physical makeup.…”

“…Students' perceptions of adopting collaborative learning as a technique for acquiring writing abilities at university were investigated by Sedhu, Choy and Lee (2015). The study looked at how English-as-a-second-language (ESL) students felt about using group discussion as a collaborative learning method when studying writing skills at university.…”