Il Jigsaw: cos'è e come applicarlo in classe

Summary

This video explores the Jigsaw technique, a cooperative learning strategy effective in schools of all levels. It involves breaking a topic into smaller 'puzzle pieces' assigned to students who become experts on their piece. They then teach it to their group, fostering a cooperative approach to learning. The method enhances responsibility, communication, and understanding, with students acting as teachers. Examples include geography and social deviance topics, demonstrating the technique's adaptability across subjects.

Takeaways

• 🧩 The Jigsaw technique is a cooperative learning method where students work on smaller parts of a topic and then share their knowledge to complete the whole.
• 👩‍🏫 It's effective in elementary schools but can also be adapted for middle and high schools with proper structuring.
• 📚 The teacher selects a topic that can be broken down into smaller, manageable parts for each student.
• 👥 Students are divided into small groups of 4 or 5, with a random distribution that changes for each Jigsaw activity.
• 📝 Each group member is assigned a different 'puzzle piece' or sub-topic to study individually.
• 🤝 After individual study, students form 'expert groups' with others who have the same sub-topic to share and deepen their understanding.
• 🗣️ Students then present their sub-topic to their original group, teaching their peers what they've learned.
• 🔄 The role of 'expert' is crucial as students must communicate their sub-topic effectively to their group members.
• 📈 The technique promotes responsibility, as each student is accountable for teaching their part of the topic to the group.
• 📊 It has been in use for over 30 years and has shown remarkable results, with students retaining up to 90% of the content.
• 🌍 Examples include studying different aspects of a country for geography or exploring theories of social deviance in sociology.

Q & A

What is the 'Jigsaw' technique discussed in the video?

The 'Jigsaw' technique is a cooperative learning strategy where a topic is divided into smaller parts, and each student studies one specific part. The students then come together to share their knowledge, creating a complete understanding of the overall topic.

How is the Jigsaw technique typically applied in the classroom?

Teachers first select a general topic and divide the class into small groups. Each student in the group is assigned a different sub-topic. After individual study, students from different groups with the same sub-topic come together as 'experts' to discuss and refine their understanding. They then return to their original group to teach their sub-topic.

Why is it important for students to assume the role of 'experts' in the Jigsaw method?

Students take on the role of 'experts' to enhance their understanding and responsibility. They must effectively communicate what they’ve learned to their peers, ensuring the entire group benefits from their knowledge.

What are the benefits of using the Jigsaw technique for learning?

The technique encourages cooperative learning, enhances communication skills, and increases retention rates—up to 90% of the material can be retained by students. It also fosters responsibility since each student's contribution is essential for the group’s overall understanding.

How can teachers ensure that the groups in Jigsaw are effective?

Teachers can ensure effectiveness by randomly grouping students, changing group compositions regularly, and selecting topics that can be easily divided into clear, manageable sub-topics.

What are some examples of subjects where the Jigsaw technique can be applied?

Examples include geography (e.g., dividing regions or countries by topics like economy, culture, and geography), sociology (e.g., studying theories on social deviance), and psychology (e.g., examining different aspects of perception).

How does the Jigsaw method improve communication skills among students?

The method forces students to find effective strategies to verbalize their knowledge, ensuring that their peers can understand the new information. This practice helps them develop clearer communication and teaching skills.

What role does the teacher play in the Jigsaw technique?

The teacher selects the topic, divides it into sub-topics, assigns students to groups, and provides resources. They oversee the process, ensuring that students collaborate effectively and understand the material.

Can the Jigsaw technique be used with older students, such as those in middle or high school?

Yes, although the technique is particularly effective with younger students, it can also be applied to middle and high school students. With careful calibration, it can be adapted to suit more complex topics and age groups.

What results have experts observed from using the Jigsaw technique over the years?

Experts have reported impressive results, with students often retaining up to 90% of the content they learn through the Jigsaw method. This high retention rate is attributed to the active and cooperative nature of the learning process.