INCLUSIVE HELPER SYSTEMS
GOAL & METHOD
GOAL#3 COOPERATIVE LEARNING APPROACHES
METHOD#4: assigned tasks and roles
Advised Age Group
14-19 year-old
Target
ALL LEARNERS
Subject
ALL SUBJECTS
Requires
Blackboard, social media, virtual classroom
Length
SHORT
Helper systems
An example of the helper system can be a corner on the blackboard where learners can write down their questions concerning tasks or learning goals, other learners (with answers) can help.
Another helper system is the expert list. On a wall in the classroom you can find a list with either tasks (e.g. book p.36, no. 6) or learning goals (e.g. I know the character traits of geometric fields/figures).
On a second column (behind the tasks), learners who know the answers can put their names as experts, so other learners can ask for their help .
Helping relationship
You can adopt technologies, but you have to be aware of the helping relationship: virtual classrooms can be used (e.g. a post on a classroom wall with private or public answers). Social media where you cannot participate is not allowed.
Weaker learners can ask their peers for help instead of yours, they can talk in a private, non-assessing situation with a classmate. Observe these situations to make sure the outcomes are correct. You can do this by setting up moments during the lesson (e.g. 15 minutes before the beginning of a new topic) when weaker and stronger learners can meet and exchange help about a specific topic.
SUMMING UP
Learners benefit because the helper system is also a differentiation tool. Stronger learners can learn to explain a certain topic to different learners with different needs, they are seen as support to the teacher. Social relationships between learners are going to improve as they get to know each other better while providing support in learning.