Abstract
The focus of this study was twofold. First, the research aimed to determine if academic achievement would be improved by working in groups versus working individually. To accomplish this goal, the researcher compared three chapter exam scores between the traditional and cooperative classes. Secondly, the study was also designed to collect the students’ attitudes toward mathematics in general and cooperative learning in specific. Quantitative data was collected through grade scores and a likert scale survey. Student achievement was analyzed by comparing changes in the mean tests scores and their respective 95% confidence intervals between the traditional and cooperative groups. Students’ attitudes toward math were captured through a 4-point scale Likert survey. Qualitative data was based on an open-ended survey regarding students’ attitudes regarding cooperative learning. Quantitative data did not reveal any difference between the traditional and cooperative classes. Qualitative data showed that students prefer to work in groups rather than individually.