Are Cooperative Learning Techniques Fragile in Information Systems? An Examination in the Context of a Database Management Course
Susan A. Brown and Barbara D. Klein
We present two examples of cooperative learning techniques – paired thinking and cooperative groups. We describe the techniques, discuss how they are used in a database classroom, and offer data to demonstrate that learning benefits can be achieved through these techniques. Our preliminary evidence suggests that, contrary to recent research in information systems, these techniques are beneficial. Further, rigid adherence to the guidelines of cooperative learning group designs is not needed to reap the learning benefits. The paper concludes with suggestions for matching the techniques to types of course material.
Keywords: IS curriculum, data models, relational model, SQL
Sue Brown is an Associate Professor of Management Information Systems in the University of Arizona's Eller College of Management. Prior to coming to Arizona, she worked at Indiana University and received her PhD from the University of Minnesota. Dr. Brown’s research focuses on technology implementation, individual adoption, computer-mediated communication, technology-mediated learning, and related topics. Her research has been published in MIS Quarterly, IEEE Transactions on Engineering Management, Communications of the ACM, Journal of the AIS, Journal of IS Education, and others. She has received a number of teaching awards and is very interested in the development and use of course portfolios for evaluating and improving teaching.
Barbara D. Klein is an Associate Professor of MIS at the University of Michigan-Dearborn. She received her Ph.D. in Information and Decision Sciences from the University of Minnesota and has published in MIS Quarterly, Omega, Database, Information & Management, Information Resources Management Journal, and other journals. Her research interests include information quality, user error behavior, and information systems pedagogy. Dr. Klein has worked in the information systems field at IBM, Exxon, and AMP.
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