This study investigated the effect of the grouping method in cooperative learning applied to chemistry concept learning. Two grouping methods used were the HML (High-Medium-Low) and the HL/MM (High-Low/Medium-Medium) ability grouping. Three classes (N...
This study investigated the effect of the grouping method in cooperative learning applied to chemistry concept learning. Two grouping methods used were the HML (High-Medium-Low) and the HL/MM (High-Low/Medium-Medium) ability grouping. Three classes (N = 136) at a high school in Seoul were randomly assigned to the control and the treatment groups. Before instruction, the test of attitude toward science instruction, the perception questionnaire of learning environment consisting of three subtests (participation, conflict, and competition), and the questionnaire of self-esteem were administered, and a mid-term examination score was obtained. These scores were used as covariates. After instruction, the three tests administered before instruction and the conceptions test were administered. Two-way ANCOVA results revealed that there was a significant interaction between the treatment and the level of previous achievement. The low-level students in the HL/MM cooperative group performed better than those in the other groups. The cooperative groups, regardless of the grouping methods, exhibited more positive perception than the control group at participation subtest of the perception questionnaire of learning environment.