assigned roles. The Observation Specialist submits a written report on how the group worked throughout the activity. | try not to use this role unless! absolutely must. ‘The key elements for success with this structure as with any new structure are time and practice. You must take the time up front to make sure the students know their roles and allow time for the students to practice the roles. in addition, all students need time to work as ‘a Specialist in all areas. Keep students in the Specialist roles for two weeks then rotate them through all the roles, As you can see, there is not a “boss” for the group; all Specialists are needed to complete the task as a group. Based on the students’ and your needs, the roles Roles and Responsibility Plates ‘and responsibilities can change. The key is to make sure the students know what you expect of them and provide time and practice. | would strongly urge you to, research cooperative leaming, It can unlock tremen- dous possibilities for a rich learning environment for your classroom, ‘Accompanying this article you will find Roles and Responsibility Plates and Tags that can be used in your classroom. The piates are intended for use with older students, while the tags are more suitable for younger, students. The tags have a tab that can be folded over a loop of string and worn as a necklace. The Communication Specialist is responsible tor all communications inside and outside the group. The Communication Specialist is the only one allowed to leave ‘the group to ask a question. Questions about the task can be directed to other Communication Specialists and the teacher. The Equipment Specialist is responsible for seeing that all supplico and equipment are picked up and returned. The Equipment Specialist keeps track of time and makes sure all team members can use the equipment. The Equipmertt Specialist facilitates the clean up and telle the Communication Specialist if any equipment and supplies are damaged or missing. ‘© 1997 AIMS EDUCATION FOUNDATION MAY/JUNE SAMS 13istjerpedG” aanpovos 7% The Procedure Specialist is responsible for making cure the group goes through the activity in a systematic way. The Procedure Specialist makes sure each atep of the task is finished before the group moves forward. stTTeNedG” worsoqTo ) ever we The Data Collection Specialist makes sure all written work the group completes is accurate and that group members have all data collected and correctly recorded. If a report is given to the whole class, it is the Data Collection Specialist’s job to do this. The Observation Specialist: checks to eee that everyone is carrying out the assigned roles. The Observation Specialist submits a written report on how the group worked throughout the activity. 14 AADMS: May/JUNE © 1997 AIMS EDUCATION FOUNDATIONRoles and Responsibility ‘© 1997 AIMS EDUCATION FOUNDATION may/JUNE AMS 15