The Impact of Collaborative Learning on the Social Skills of Primary School Students
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This study aims to investigate the impact of collaborative learning on the social skills of primary school students, focusing on communication, cooperation, and conflict resolution. Social skills are critical in early child development, particularly in the primary education context. A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining both qualitative and quantitative data. Data were collected through questionnaires, observations, and interviews with 100 primary school students in Medan City. The results showed that collaborative learning significantly improved students' social skills, with 75% of participants reporting increased self-confidence in peer interactions. However, challenges such as difficulties faced by introverted students and issues in managing group dynamics were identified. These findings underscore the importance of incorporating collaborative learning into the curriculum and highlight the need for educator training in group management. The study suggests that more structured collaborative learning activities should be integrated into school programs to foster social skills development. Educators, parents, and curriculum developers can use these insights to create more effective strategies that promote student interaction and cooperation in the classroom.
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