Analysis of the preparedness of students and teachers for collaborative learning in the context of distance learning

The article discusses the current method of collaborative learning and the possibility of its practical application in the classroom in a remote format. The basic principles and characteristics of this knowledge acquisition system, its main advantages and disadvantages are revealed, and the results of the ascertaining experiment are analyzed. Both the students and the teachers who participated in the project held a positive view of distance learning. Preparation of projects, reports, presentations, as well as group discussions were indicated as the most common forms of work involving joint educational and cognitive activities of students. The survey participants expressed such wishes and recommendations for improving the quality of distance learning as the need to create more resources designed for team work. Besides, students and teachers need additional training in order to use remote platforms and spaces for remote team work more effectively. The authors came to the conclusion that in order to bring the quality of distance learning closer to the quality of face-to-face education, it is necessary to provide students with opportunities to share their materials and help each other during classes and in preparation for them, since such practice increases cognitive interest and educational motivation and, as a result, improves students’ performance in exams.