In collaborative learning, what is the role of the educator?

In collaborative learning, the role of the educator is fundamentally that of a facilitator. This means that the educator creates an environment conducive to learning by encouraging group discussions, guiding students through the collaborative process, and helping them explore concepts together. The facilitator is responsible for fostering a climate where students feel comfortable sharing ideas, asking questions, and engaging with one another's perspectives.

This approach empowers students to take charge of their learning while developing critical thinking and teamwork skills. The educator may pose guiding questions, provide resources, and assist in keeping the group focused and on track, while also allowing for student autonomy in the learning process.

In contrast, merely assessing individual contributions focuses too heavily on individual performance rather than on the dynamics of collaboration. Providing all answers to questions would undermine the collaborative aspect by stifling student inquiry and exploration. Leading the learning without any student input eliminates the benefits of group collaboration, whereby diverse viewpoints and insights enhance understanding and learning retention.