The effect of cooperative learning according to constructivism theory on the success and attitudes of primary education 5th grade students at science and technology class

The aim of this study was to see the effect of cooperative learning, which is based on constructivist learning theory, on students? achievement and attitudes in 5th grade Science and Technology class.The study was done in two randomly selected 5th grade classes at Battalgazi Elementary School, in Altindag, Ankara. A pre-test, post-test empirical model was used in the research. In one group, cooperative learning methods were used. In another group, traditional learning methods were used.Both Science and Technology achievement and Science and Technology attitude tests were developed by researcher to collect the data. Also, a student opinion test was used. Data was collected with pre and post test versions of Science and Technology achievement and Science and Technology attitude tests. All participants took both tests at the same time. However, student opinion test was taken by only experiment group. The data were analyzed by SPSS 17.0 version. A student t-test was conducted to pre and post versions of both tests to see the difference between control and experiment group. Also, frequency and percentage values were calculated for student opinion test.According to the analyzes, it was found that, participants who were taught by using the cooperative learning methods had better achievement scores than participants who were taught by using the traditional methods. The experiment group had developed positive attitudes toward Science and Technology class. Also, results of the student opinion test showed that, participants liked cooperative learning methods.