The attitude and motivation levels of members of multi-ethnic groups also differed. The members of such groups seemed eager to learn from each other. Also, the different ethnic groups brought with them different learning experiences through their different cultural upbringing, thus exposing one another to different ways to go about learning.

I believe that multi-ethnic grouping in cooperative learning fosters healthier learning environments, promotes respect for each individual within a group, lessens stereotyping and discrimination, and allows for better intellectual development. I intend to make a more conscious effort this academic year to carry out detailed observations of what really happens in my multi-ethnic groupings at my university.

From the Conferences

Rosini Abu & Norzilah Mohd. Zain (2000 May). The knowledge of ESL trainee teachers on cooperative learning. Paper presented at the Malaysia International Conference on English Language Teaching, Malacca. rosini@educ.upm.edu.my

The main objective of this study was to investigate the knowledge of trainee (pre-service) teachers in Malaysia in regards to various aspects of cooperative learning: theory, advocates, objectives, social skills, advantages, teacher role, rewards, and assessment. Participants in the study were divided into three groups according to their area of studies: Art Studies, Local Studies, and Physical and Health Education.

Data were gathered via a questionnaire which consisted of four sections and used both open- and close-ended items. Data analysis was conducted using T-test, ANOVA, and Scheffe's test. Findings indicate that trainee teachers have limited knowledge of cooperative learning but a moderately positive view of it. No significant differences were found between the three groups. The researchers discuss the implications of the studyfor the roles of teacher trainers, educators, and experts on cooperative learning. Recommendations are made and suggestions for future research are given.

In March 2000 the Center for Application of Psychological Type (CAPT) sponsored a conference entitled Creating Collaborative Learning Communities: The Role of Type in Education. The conference proceedings are available for purchase for $25 (US) plus shipping and handling. Also, the conference was audio taped, and those tapes are available for purchase through Convention Recordings (1-813/345-8288). The conference was attented by more than 120 people, including Mary McCaulley, Gordon Lawrence, Peter Briggs Meyers and Katherine Myers, Elizabeth Murphy, and representatives from Association for Psychological Type and Consulting Psychologists Press. The conference--highlighted by our keynote speaker, Andrew Baumgartner, the 1999 National Teacher of the Year--was co-chaired by Dr. Dan Robinson and Dr. Jean Reid. To order, contact CAPT Publications at tom@capt.org.