PRACTICES AND PROBLEMS OF COOPERATIVE LEARNING IN MATHEMATICS CLASS IN SOME SELECTED SECONDARY SCHOOLS OF WEST HARERGE ZONE, OROMIA REGIONAL STATE.

Abstract

The main purpose of this study was to analyze the cooperative learning practices and explore the problems that influence cooperative learning in mathematics class in some selected secondary schools of West Hararghe zone. To conduct the study, a survey design was employed. The sources of data were students, mathematics teachers, unit leaders, supervisors and school principals. By using random sampling technique, 120 students were selected moreover, by using available sampling 18 teachers were selected. The main instrument of data collection was questionnaire. It was also substantiated with interview, group discussion and classroom observations. To analyze the data both quantitative and qualitative method were used. The data that was collected from questionnaires were presented in tables and analyzed using percentage and descriptive statements. Besides triangulation was used to analyze the data from the questionnaires and the actual classroom observation and interview. The result of the study showed that the extent of practicing cooperative learning in west Hararghe selected secondary schools were practiced highly. The attitudes of students and teachers towards cooperative learning was encouraging whereas concerning individual learning both teachers and students attitude were discouraging. The major challenges that influence the practice of cooperative learning in mathematics classroom, which were shared by both teachers, the principals of the sampled schools and students and needs instant solution includes; arrangements of chairs, achievements of students, shortage of teaching materials, time shortage and large class size. The teachers needs to get continuous intensive training on how to use cooperative learning strategies, the willingness and positive feelings of teachers and students need to be increased through training and practices. Education stakeholders should work and put instant solution on challenges of cooperative learning practices in mathematicsclassroom.