Cooperative learning as a method to develop democracy and health in a pedagogical institution

1. Cooperative learning as a method to develop democracy and health in a pedagogical institution EvelinaRustem International Class Instructors: JytteJuul Jensen Brian Lassen

2. “Experience is the teacher of all things” (Iulius Caesar)

3. I chose this theme because after my participation at Folk School in placement and reading some books about cooperative learning, I realized the importance of the connection between health and democracy. • I discovered the willing of students to take part in this type of activities more than in those which implies competition. • And not to forget about the benefits on the social development. Why “Cooperative Learning”

4. What is cooperative learning?

5. “Cooperative learning is a method of instruction that has students together in groups, usually with the goal of completing a task.”(Johnson&Johnson 1984) • Examples: • Organizing a flash-mob; • Constructing pyramids; • Dance activities; • Body expression; • Different tasks.

6. Students who are involved in this type of activity develop the follow skills: • Physical fitness: learning skills; • Based on problem solving; • Psychical balance: joy, motivation, cognitive skills; • Social skills: communication, using praises; learning values, ethics, positive relationship; Benefits of using cooperative learning:

8. “Teacher- the one who guide the didactic activity, learning process with a group of 20-25 students”(Stanescu, 2000,p.45) Role of the teacher and his qualities: Teacher should guide the activity from classroom in purpose that all goals will be achieved: choosing the best methods for a good development of students. • Qualities: • Patience; • Confidence; • True compasion for students; • Understanding; • The ability to explain in different way; • Dedication; • Support; • Pride in student’s accomplishments

10. What is feedback? “Feedback is a process in which the effect or output of an action is returned (fed-back) to modify the next action.” “It is a response to a stimuli only if it brings about a change in the recipient’s behavior. “ (www.bussinessdictionary.com) Giving the feedback and keep the students motivated makes the difference between a good teacher and a regular one.

11. In my opinion, as a teacher, giving the feedback when working with students means the decision between the success or failure. The importance of feedback • I see it like a way to improve the process and also to motivate people, because is part of the ongoing assessment.

12. Feedback can be at the end of a lesson, like a discussion;

13. And also can be seen as praise or correction during the lesson.

14. The Danish Folk School which was set up by Grundvig. is organized like a democratic place, where students come and choose to take part at activities that helps them to find their goal in life. Democracy at “hojskolen” Participating at sports activities, they are learning social skills that helps them to become democratic citizens.

15. The way they start a flash-mob is based on democracy and cooperation. They should come with ideas for the choreography and to work in teams.

16. Assumption of the responsibilities for their acts; • Being used with cooperation with each other; • Freedom of expression and organization; • Moral/ Ethics values; • Tolerance, generosity; • Unity, friendship; • Respect for the others; • Spirit of fairness. What are the achievements in the democracy field?

17. And then the only thing that remains is to get agreement in “assembly” and to announce the others Democracy in practice At the team meetings they should prepare something to add to the schedule

18. Influence of sports on health behavior Health- “A state of complete physical, mental social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.”(WHO, 1946) Being involved in sports will bring them a healthy lifestyle like hobbies and habits.

19. “A good or satisfactory condition of existence, a state characterized by health, happiness, prosperity.” (Koch, 2000) Well-being • Dimensions: • Self-acceptance; • Positive relations with others; • autonomy; • Purpose in life; • Personal growth.

20. After observing and analysing the activity developed in a Folk School I can say that the goal itself guide the individuals through a healthy life. And the well-being of each person guide to a welfare state. • Participate at activities that help the students to develop social skills and to absorb values will give social citizens. Conclusions:

23. Thank you!