INTRODUCING COOPERATIVE LEARNING ON A FINANCE COURSE

This comparative study describes the impact of implementing two cooperative strategies in Higher Education in the area of Finance. These strategies teamwork and the Aronson Jigsaw technique, were introduced with a focus on the potential benefits of active learning in a University context in which deeply rooted teaching methods still coexist, as in the Spanish case. The objective of this endeavor was two-fold: to revitalize the methodological framework, and to highlight the importance of students’ co-responsibility in their own learning process and in the group. The results, despite the difficulties from lack of previous experience, were positive, and both techniques enhance the principle of life-long learning. Among other benefits for students, motivation and dynamism both inside and outside the class are key points to consider in making the classroom a more active and interactive space. Lecturers are challenged to re-think and innovate their teaching techniques, which is also highly motivating and rewarding. In sum, the results are promising and show that these educational resources make the learning process more effective and dynamic.