The jigsaw method is a cooperative learning strategy that can help you engage your students, foster collaboration, and promote deeper understanding of your content. In this article, you will learn what the jigsaw method is, how to implement it in your classroom, and what benefits it can bring to your teaching and learning.
The jigsaw method is based on the idea that each student has a piece of the puzzle that is essential to complete the whole picture. You divide your class into small groups, assign each group a different topic or subtopic related to your main content, and have them research and prepare a presentation on their assigned piece. Then, you reshuffle the groups so that each new group has one member from each original group. Each member then teaches their piece to the rest of the new group, and together they form a comprehensive understanding of the whole content.
The Jigsaw Method involves dividing a topic into parts, assigning each to a group, then reassembling the pieces through sharing. It fosters collaboration, as students become experts in their segment & teach peers. This cultivates deeper comprehension, as learners must grasp their section fully to explain it. Additionally, it promotes active engagement and empathy, enhancing overall understanding through diverse perspectives.
To use the jigsaw method effectively, you need to select suitable content that can be divided into smaller chunks that are interrelated and meaningful. Prepare the materials and resources your students will need to learn and teach their pieces. Divide your class into heterogeneous groups of four or five students, and assign each group a letter (A, B, C, etc.). Assign each group a different piece of the content, providing them with guiding questions or key points to help structure their information. Monitor and support the groups as they work, checking their understanding and accuracy of their piece. Afterwards, form new groups by having one student from each original group join together and assign each new group a number (1, 2, 3, etc.). Have each student teach their piece to their new group members while encouraging them to ask questions and take notes. Finally, assess your students' learning by having them complete a quiz, project, discussion, or reflection on the whole content.
The jigsaw method can offer many advantages for both you and your students, such as increasing student engagement and motivation due to more autonomy, choice, and responsibility for their learning. It also encourages collaboration and communication skills, as students must work together, listen to each other, and share ideas. Furthermore, it promotes deeper understanding and retention of the content as students have to process, organize, and explain their piece to others. Additionally, it can enhance critical thinking and problem-solving skills as students analyze, synthesize, and evaluate the information they receive and present. Moreover, it reduces boredom and monotony with more variety, interaction, and fun in their learning. It also accommodates different learning styles and abilities with the use of different media, modes, and strategies to learn and teach their piece. Finally, it creates a positive and supportive learning environment where students can learn from and help each other while appreciating the diversity of their peers.
By working in small groups, students learn to collaborate effectively, share ideas, and solve problems together. As students collaborate with peers from different expert groups, they gain insights into diverse perspectives and develop empathy for others. This promotes a sense of community and understanding within the classroom.