Cooperative learning in Israel: Historical, cultural and educational perspectives

This chapter examines 20 years of CL practices in Israel, from historical and ideological perspectives. The examination reveals that U.S.A. methods of CL are inherently culture-bound, and that their basic structure and techniques are incompatible with Israeli educational values. Small group teaching methods developed in Israel are commensurate with social characteristics of the culture. Israeli-generated cooperative teaching methods focus on intrinsic motivation, peer discussion and knowledge construction, via investigative and creative procedures. These methods have successfully permeated the schools of Israel while other methods have failed.