Students work in groups, each with their own part of a topic or challenge. They then share their knowledge in new groups, bringing all the parts together.
The method trains students’ ability to delve into a subject area, share their knowledge, and build a holistic understanding in collaboration with others.
Divide students into groups, where each group will work on one part of a topic or challenge.
The groups investigate their focus area by, for example, reading texts or otherwise collecting data about a defined area. All students in the groups note the results of their investigations.
The students are mixed into new groups, so that each group consists of one representative from each of the original groups.
In the new group, each student shares their knowledge with the others so that everyone gets a comprehensive overview.
Didactic tips
- Optionally, use the Matrix Groups method to form groups.
- A matrix chart can be used for students to fill out within their new groups so they get an overall picture.
- The matrix groups can conclude with a joint summary of the topic— for example, through a debate or by posting the collected knowledge on the class’s Matrix Groups.