What best defines reciprocal teaching?

Reciprocal teaching is best defined by the concept where students take turns being the teacher in a collaborative setting. This instructional approach fosters an interactive learning environment where learners engage in dialogue and discussion about the reading material. By taking on the role of the teacher, students practice and develop their comprehension skills, learn to ask questions, make predictions, summarize, and clarify information collectively. This method emphasizes collaboration and shared responsibility for learning, which enhances understanding and retention of the material.

The rationale behind reciprocal teaching is that it empowers students to take an active part in their learning process, promoting critical thinking and collaborative skills. It diverges from more traditional models where the teacher assumes an authoritative role in leading discussions and providing all instruction.