The terms cooperative learning and collaborative learning should be treated as student-centered equivalents, and that any differences should be seen as options for teachers and students to consider in promoting effective interaction in the classroom and beyond. Whether educators use the term cooperative learning or collaborative learning, the use of group activities by whatever name stands in stark contrast with approaches to teaching that are characterized by more teacher-focused instruction.

Commonalities of approaches that make regular use of student-student interaction include:

1. Belief that students learn by doing and by discussing with others, discussions which include higher order thinking;
2. Attempts to provide students with more control over their own learning;
3. Appreciation of the need that humans feel for belonging;
4. Advocacy of life-long learning with and for others; and
5. Trust that collaboration/cooperation can be a powerful force for good in the classroom and beyond.

The bottom line is that whether educators call what they are attempting collaborative learning or cooperative learning, they are attempting a student-centered pedagogy.