Four corners (teaching method)

The Four Corners is one of the many co-operative teaching and learning strategies. The activity can be useful when the teacher wants to point out the fact that not all in the class have the same viewpoint or that there are multiple solutions to some problems.[1] This teaching method allows students who would normally not communicate in class to participate and communicate with their peers. The strategy encourages students to formulate their own opinions on a given topic, and allows them to contribute their ideas to class discussion.[2]

Process

First, the four corners of the class are labeled, either with a chart or a vignette. Each corner will have an opinion, written statements, etc. Second, the teacher poses a question, or a problem to the class. The students reflect on the question without discussion. Third, the teacher invites the students to take a place at a corner that suits their opinion best by announcing "Corner". Later, the students at each corner share their views with each other, either in pairs, or to the whole group gathered at that corner.

Lastly, the teacher asks the students to be ready to share their ideas, reflections, lessons, plans, and opinions with the whole class.[3]

Critique

Four corners is a collaborative method of teaching and learning that gives the students a platform for various cognitive and affective learnings. This strategy helps the students to think at a higher level, reflect on what they have learned in class, voice out opinions safely, learn to critique on various issues, evaluate certain solutions, and communicate better. This strategy also enhances the responsibility of a student when making a conclusion or opinion.

References
  1. Kagan, Spencer. "The Structural Approach to Co-operative Learning" (PDF). moe.gov.bz. Retrieved 5 September 2015.
  2. Bennett, Barrie (2001). Beyond Monet : the artful science of instructional integration. Toronto: Bookation. ISBN 0969538839.
  3. Marzano, Robert J. "Classroom Management That Works" (PDF). etfo.ca/. Archived from the original (PDF) on 2010-12-30.
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