High-Achieving Students’ Interactions and Performance on Complex Mathematical Tasks as a Function of Homogeneous and Heterogeneous Pairings

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine high-achieving students’ interactions and performances on complex mathematics tasks as a function of homogeneous versus heterogeneous pairings. Participants were third and fourth graders who had been trained in, and had routinely practiced, constructive peer-tutoring interactions and had experience working individually on performance assessments. We videotaped 10 high achievers working with a high-achieving and with a low-achieving classmate on performance assessments. Results indicated that homogeneous dyads operated more collaboratively, generated greater cognitive conflict and resolution, and produced better quality work. Implications are discussed in terms of optimizing grouping arrangements during collaborative learning activities and preparing students to work productively together on complex tasks.