Module 1, Jigsaw Method: Piecing Together Learning and Life Skills

When one hears the word “jigsaw” an image of chaos and disorder comes to mind. Probably many of our first encounters with the word jigsaw came with the concept of a puzzle that did not notch together like a traditional puzzle, but rather slid together and had to have all the pieces in line for it to fit in the outline. This may be frustrating for some people, who would rather there be a thousand pieces that stuck together than have fifty pieces that were in a jigsaw puzzle. While the Jigsaw Method of learning does not need to be nearly as precise as a puzzle, it still has a few of the basic concepts in it that make it compare to how we traditionally use the word “jigsaw”.

            The Jigsaw Method follows the pattern of multiple ideas coming together to create a group, similar to the puzzle pieces. The first step of the process is to have groups randomly assigned in the class. All the students in each group come with different ideas, which can be compared to the puzzle pieces. Each student in the group studies the same subject and learns it well. They then come together to discuss the subject, each with his or her own ideas, preferences, and points of view that teach the other students in the group, even though they all studied the same subject.

The next step compares to the puzzle in that each idea represented in the group is a “puzzle piece”. Each group only has one representative of his or her subject present, while all the other group members have their own individual and different subjects. Each person in the group becomes masters of their craft, allowing them to know the subject at hand very well. The groups are then prompted to instruct the others in their group on their subjects. Each person takes turns describing and teaching their group about their subject, connecting the group together as a learning community of sorts.

            The Jigsaw Method tailors to the idea that students can and should learn to be able to discuss with and teach each other. The first portion, where a group studies the same subject and then teaches one another, works on developing the ability to listen to different viewpoints on the same subject and being able to learn from each other. Just because one may have a certain viewpoint on a matter does not immediately mean everyone else will have the same perceptions. It is beneficial to have many people take different angles on the same subject. The second portion focuses more on the ability to convey messages and being able to both teach and listen. Both of these skills are critical in any vocation, because everyone must learn AND share for there to be growth. All in all, the Jigsaw Method not only develops skills in instruction and learning, but how to interact in all other areas of life as well.