The Effects of Cooperative Mastery Learning Strategies on Mathematics Achievement

This study investigated the effects of student-teams using mastery learning strategies (STML) on mathematics achievement of fifth-grade children (N = 134). The experiment used a 2 x 2 (Student Teams x Mastery Learning) factorial design. Results showed higher achievement gains for pupils exposed to STML than for those exposed through more traditional instruction. The data further indicated that learning in small groups promoted only computational skills whereas mastery learning strategies improved both computation and comprehension. In addition, the benefits of the methods for high-, medium-, and low-ability students were examined and discussed.