What instructional approach focuses on students working collaboratively to solve problems?

The focus of the question is on an instructional approach that emphasizes collaboration among students in solving problems. The correct answer highlights cooperative learning, which is characterized by students working together in groups to achieve a common goal. This method encourages student interaction, fosters teamwork, and enhances communication skills, making learning a more social experience.

In cooperative learning, tasks are often structured in a way that requires each member to contribute to the group’s success, thereby promoting accountability and mutual support. This approach helps students develop critical thinking and collaborative skills, which are essential for real-world problem-solving scenarios.

In contrast, individual learning, competitive learning, and independent study do not emphasize collaboration or teamwork as the primary driver of learning. Individual learning focuses on students working alone, while competitive learning pits students against each other, which can lead to an atmosphere that discourages collaboration. Independent study allows students to learn at their own pace but does not involve group interactions. Therefore, the cooperative learning approach stands out as the most effective method for collaborative problem-solving among students.