Date of Award/Publication

4-2009

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

MS in Mathematics, Science, and Technology Education

First Supervisor

Diane Barrett

Abstract

Student performance may be enhanced socially and academically if all students are given the opportunities to experience social emotional learning (SEL) and cooperative learning by participating in small groups that emphasize SEL skills. Seventy-two eighth grade middle school students registered in one of four eighth grade general science classes participated in this study. Two classes participated in activities that focused on social emotional skills and teamwork at the beginning of the school year. The experimental group performed better than the control group in group assigned projects. Both groups reported working in groups that promoted sharing of ideas, support, cooperation and respect. Cooperative group class arrangement at the onset of the school year facilitated development and use of social emotional skills.

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