It encourages cooperative learning among students.
It helps improve listening, communication, and problem-solving skills.
Effectiveness of jigsaw in particular Cooperative learning works well when
1) students are interdependent in a positive way,
2) individuals are accountable,
3) students interact to promote student learning,
4) groups use good teamwork skills, and
5) students have an opportunity for analyzing how well their groups are functioning.
The first three components are inherent in the way that a well-constructed jigsaw functions. Each student must not only be involved in peer teaching in a mixed group but also must help others in the group learn in order for the group to be able to carry out the group synthesis/analysis task (1 and 3 above).
Success in the group task requires individuals to be accountable, to interact to promote peer learning, and to depend upon each other in positive ways (2 above).
The fourth and fifth components of successful cooperative learning are not inherent in the jigsaw structure but can be addressed by the instructor in a variety of ways, including starting with lower stakes interactions early in the semester and setting aside time for students to reflect on what is working and what isn't.
How to use jigsaw? Introduce the strategy and the topic to be studied.
Assign each student to a "home group" of 3-5 students who reflect a range of reading abilities.
Determine a set of reading selections and assign one selection to each student.
Create "expert groups" that consist of students across "home groups" who will read the same selection.
Give all students a framework for managing their time on the various parts of the jigsaw task.
Provide key questions to help the "expert groups" gather information in their particular area.
Provide materials and resources necessary for all students to learn about their topics and become "experts."
Note: It is important that the reading material assigned is at appropriate instructional levels (90–95% reading accuracy).
Discuss the rules for reconvening into "home groups" and provide guidelines as each "expert" reports the information learned.
Prepare a summary chart or graphic organizer for each "home group" as a guide for organizing the experts' information report.
Remind students that "home group" members are responsible to learn all content from one another.