Use of the Jigsaw Technique to promote problem-solving skills and collaborative work in English speaking tasks

Abstract

This article describes a study whose objective was the implementation of the Jigsaw Learning Technique to develop the higher order problem-solving and collaborative skills on 31 sixth grade students in the English subject. Students performed English oral expression activities in small groups during two hours weekly, the unit was “Around Town” and lasted seven weeks. Every participant was engaged and interacted collaboratively to accomplish the tasks. The data collection was obtained from the application of a diagnostic task and a final evaluation task for Jigsaw groups, evaluated by a problem-solving analytical rubric and a collaborative work rating scale. The experience was concluded by the application of a Satisfaction Survey of the Jigsaw Technique. In this way, students progressively developed the problem solving skill; likewise, they demonstrated an improvement in collaborative work.

Key Words: Jigsaw Technique, higher order thinking skills, problem solving, collaborative work, speaking skills.