Which element of cooperative learning ensures that each group member is responsible for their contribution?

• A. Positive interdependence
• B. Individual accountability
• C. Collaborative skills
• D. Group processing / debriefing at conclusion of lesson

Answer: (B)

The key idea tested here is individual accountability—the requirement that each student is responsible for their own contribution within a group task. When this element is in place, everyone must complete their portion, share it with the group, and often demonstrate understanding separately, so the group’s overall success depends on each member’s effort. This helps prevent free-riding and ensures fairness in grading or assessment because contributions come from each individual.

Positive interdependence means the group succeeds only if everyone contributes, collaborative skills cover how group members communicate and work together, and group processing/debriefing is the time spent reflecting on how the group functioned. While these support effective teamwork, they don’t by themselves guarantee that every member fulfills their own part, which is why individual accountability is the best fit for this item.