Jigsaw Learning

What is Jigsaw Learning?

Jigsaw Learning is a cooperative learning strategy that has been around since the 1970s.  Jigsaw Learning allows all learners the opportunity to become experts in a specific field and “fit” their findings with those of their peers within a central theme.  This style of learning encourages all students’ work essential in order to understand a final product or idea.  All students are held accountable for their in the jigsaw model.  

Why Jigsaw Learning?  

Jigsaw Learning was first used in 1970 in an Austin, Texas classroom.  The students in this classroom were mixed racially for the first time in their school career.  However, the students of this particular classroom experienced feelings of fear,anger and distrust among one another.  By incorporating the jigsaw method into this classroom, students began demonstrating respect for one another and those who rarely participated were given the chance to become experts and teach their peers.  Students had to trust one another in order to receive all the information necessary for the upcoming test.  

Findings indicate that the Jigsaw Learning Model eliminates competition among peers and an atmosphere of trust and personal responsibility.  The Jigsaw Learning Method works for all students placed in a heterogeneously classroom when the teacher has designed groups according to students work ethic and needs.  Jigsaw Learning classrooms report that students are more engaged throughout lessons and the attendance rate is higher. Experts believe this style of learning engages all types of learners.  

How Do I Incorporate Jigsaw Learning in My Classroom?  

Before incorporating this model in your classroom, make sure you know all your students abilities.  Students should be divided into 5-6 groups depending on class size and what you want them to learn. Make sure all groups consist of all types of learners, races, and gender.  Appoint one leader in each group.  Divide groups work into smaller segments in which each participant has one idea to research.  Group members will then disperse into groups that share “like” topics.  Group members will then come back to report to their original group their findings and research.  It is a good idea to test all group members after presenting their information.  This ensures that every group member took their role seriously along with learning the information presented by their classmates.  

What do I Think about Jigsaw Learning? 

I have tried Jigsaw Learning in my classroom several of times.  I must admit that it is often hard when dividing groups and ensuring full participation of ALL group members.  I often have students come to me stating that someone is not participating to the fullest.  Personally, that is my only problem with Jigsaw Learning.  I often fear holding all group members responsible and possibly testing them on the information presented.  Therefore, I often find myself reteaching what the groups just accomplished.  

Today’s curriculum encourages students to be the head of their own learning while the teacher facilitates.  What a great way to encourage this way of thinking by participating in Jigsaw Learning!  I must admit that it often excites me when I hear students discussing topics and sharing their own opinions with their peers without my direct guidance.  Jigsaw Learning does encourage students to be independent thinkers and take on their own responsibility of independent learning.  

After reading the listed website, I am encouraged to utilize this learning tool in my Differentiated Unit Plan.  I believe it will benefit all learners as well as bring in multiple learning styles.  Students do need a change of how information is presented.  Being a social studies teacher, I often find myself presenting the students with the same lecture based notes, however, this does not benefit everyone or encourage student based learning.  By incorporating Jigsaw Learning into my unit, students will have the opportunity to share their expertise with their peers.