Open Access Peer-reviewed Research Article

Developing a supportive peer environment: Engaging students through cooperative skills in the classroom

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Submitted   Mar 3, 2021
Published   Apr 1, 2021
Issue    Vol 3 No 1 (2021)
DOI   10.25082/ADEP.2021.01.001

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John S. Saroyan corresponding author
Pepperdine University, 24255 Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu, CA 90263, USA

Abstract

Children with peer acceptance problems struggle to fit in among classmates and often feel rejection and social isolation.  Common reasons can stem from a child’s unique personality, individuality or special needs issues.  These children often experience emotional problems and symptoms resulting from poor social relationships and difficulty fitting in to their environment.  Within the classroom, teachers may provide encouragement and support for these children as well as their better adjusted peers, helping them equally engage through improved understanding and acceptance.  In this article, a cooperative classroom approach is discussed to help students develop healthier communication with mutual respect and the freedom to be their natural, core self.  A Democratic Student Council is presented as a cooperative classroom activity that encourages peer compassion and openness while supporting individuality and feelings of belonging.

Keywords
social acceptance, bullying, core self, cooperative learning, student council, belonging

Article Details

How to Cite
Saroyan, J. (2021). Developing a supportive peer environment: Engaging students through cooperative skills in the classroom. Advances in Developmental and Educational Psychology, 3(1), 81-89. https://doi.org/10.25082/ADEP.2021.01.001
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This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License.

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