- This approach utilizes specific collaborative techniques that structure a task specific learning activity. 
- Specific and well-defined techniques that can be easily learned and applied by educated
- Often focused on specific object areas and grade levels 
- Each collaborative technique can be used as a foundation for adaptation to a different learning activity 

Chapman University

Placing students in groups does not guarantee collaboration. A combination of complex approaches that reinforce and enhance collaborative learning and social interaction amongst group members are essential. This article suggests three approaches:
- Cognitive approach of promoting epistemic fluency.
- Direct approach of structuring task-specific learning activities.
- The conceptual approach of applying a set of conditions to stimulate/stress collaboration.

These methods encourage social interaction in ways that encourage elaboration, questioning, rehearsal, and elicitation.

Identifying the Pitfalls for Social Interaction in Computer-Supportive Collaborative Learning Environments: Enhancing Collaborative Learning

Kreijns, K., Kirschner, P. A., Jochems, W. (2003). Identifying the pitfalls for social interaction in computer-supported collaborative environments: a review of hte research. Computers in Human Behavior, 19(3), 335-353.

Identifying the Pitfalls for Social Interaction in Computer-Supportive Collaborative Learning Environments Reference

Direct Approach: Structuring a Task Specific Learning Activity

- Involves altering a general conceptual model of collaborative learning to apply to the desired and/or chosen circumstances so that specific types of collaboration can be created.
- Not an easily learned method but can be utilized in every subject and any age
- The conceptual approach typically utilizes the following related conditions:  
    - positive interdependence
    - promotive interaction 
    - individual accountability 
    - interpersonal and small-group skills
    - group processing 
- If these conditions are met, the conceptual approach has the potential to increase (1) the learner’s effort to achieve, (2) the quality of relationship between group members, (3) the member’s psychological health. 
- This approach reduces the negative effects such as free-rider or hitchhiking effect, social loafing, and sucker effect. 

Conceptual approach: Applying a Set of Conditions that Enforce Collaboration

- this approach utilizes specific collaborative techniques that structure a task specific learning activity. 
- Specific and well-defined techniques that can be easily learned and applied by educated
- Often focused on specific object areas and grade levels 
- Each collaborative technique can be used as a foundation for adaptation to a different learning activity 

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