Abstract: In this paper we describe an instructional tactic of individually assigned homework that promotes and strengthens individual learning processes. We claim that current emphasis on the benefits of collaborative learning belittles the importance of individual learning processes and reduces the opportunities to require and assess individual learning within IS education. In our study, which used specially designed individual assignments, we succeeded in dramatically reducing the failure rate in two courses in two consecutive semesters. We present findings from additional research tools that support and explain the change we found in the failure rate when the tactic of the individually assigned homework was used. We conclude with some implications of the suggested tactic including dealing with academic dishonesty and lowering the dropout rate in IS education.

Keywords: Individual assignments, Individual homework, Individual learning, Effective learning

Download this article: JISE - Volume 21 Number 2, Page 185.pdf

Recommended Citation: Yadin, A. & Or-Bach, R. (2010). The Importance of Emphasizing Individual Learning in the “Collaborative Learning Era.” Journal of Information Systems Education, 21(2), 185-194.