Abstract:

Collaborative strategies used by teachers to create a stimulating learning environment include activities that enhance interaction between teachers and students, and encourage students’ motivation and active learning through insight, discovery, and research. In this context, learning is recognised as a dynamic and complex process involving creative thinking, evaluation of choices, and research, with the aim of designing thematic activities by applying collaborative strategies and reflecting on their implementation. The elective course Stimulating Environment for Teaching and Learning at the Faculty of Teacher Education, University of Rijeka, Croatia, addresses these teaching strategies that provide a stimulating environment for learning.

During classes attended by second-year students (N = 25), research was conducted with the aim of analysing the implementation of student activities in:
a) the application of designed collaborative strategies for thematic activities, and
b) student reflection on implemented collaborative strategies.

After implementing the strategies, examples of which are described in the paper to illustrate the findings, students reflected on their practice through three focus groups. They expressed their opinions on the actions taken, questioned theoretical and experiential assumptions, and sought new ways of understanding the elements of a supportive teaching and learning environment. This conceptual approach is based on reflective practice as a holistic process, where reflection is central to the learning and change process. The findings indicate that students place the greatest importance on adapting teaching strategies to students’ individual abilities and interests, planning collaborative strategies that establish a stimulating atmosphere for learning and teaching, and using various forms of evaluating learning outcomes. The spatial environment of the classroom is recognised as a significant factor in encouraging student activity. They also emphasise the competence to use digital media during active learning, which facilitates constructivist, self-regulated, and collaborative learning. This paper provides insights into understanding the possibilities and highlights the importance of teaching and encouraging students to apply collaborative work strategies, focusing on the active role of students in the learning process.

Keywords:

Collaborative strategies, stimulating learning environment, students, reflective practice.