Which instructional practice encourages active participation among students and fosters collaboration?

The instructional practice that encourages active participation among students and fosters collaboration is cooperative learning. This approach involves students working together in small groups or teams to complete tasks, solve problems, or engage in discussions. Each member of the group has a specific role and responsibility, which not only promotes interaction but also enhances communication and teamwork skills.

Cooperative learning effectively creates an environment where students can share diverse perspectives, learn from one another, and achieve a common goal. It helps strengthen social skills, build relationships, and develop a sense of belonging within the classroom, all of which contribute to deeper learning and understanding of the material.

In contrast, other methods like lecture-based instruction primarily position the teacher as the central figure in imparting knowledge, with students playing a passive role. Standardized test preparation often focuses on individual performance and may limit opportunities for collaboration, while independent assignments typically encourage solitary work and do not foster the same level of interaction and teamwork.