RESUMO
At the early stage of formal education system, formation of learning groups was influenced by various factors but as structure was not defined rationally and as per the need of child. But with the changing time educational objectives have been modified by noting core concern of child‟s need. The present paper throws a light upon innovative small group teaching-learning technique named „Cooperative Learning‟. Over the last three decades, the small group cooperative learning has got broad-based attention from the scholars and teachers. It provides bases for small group instructional systems which not only optimize students learning but also tends to higher various other positive attributes. The present paper gives an overview of the meaning and concept that can be used to comprehend small group learning techniques in Indian classrooms in future. Furthermore it discusses the five-component theory regarding essential elements to make success of cooperative learning as: (a) Positive interdependence; (b) Face-to-face promotive interaction; (c) Individual accountability; (d) Social skills; and (e) Group processing. It highlights various aspects which distinguish cooperative learning from competitive and individualistic learning on four bases: goal; levels of cooperation; interaction pattern; and evaluation of outcomes. It also suggests various steps to implement cooperative learning in classroom.