Cooperative learning is a movement based on a set of theoretical principles and a mode of group organisation, according to which a group of students must collaborate to achieve a more meaningful learning outcome for all

This paper describes an experience in the construction of knowledge models, conducted at the Public University of Navarra (Spain), during the 2006/07 academic year, with 120 student teachers. The subject area was Knowledge of the Natural, Social and Cultural Environment and the objective was to create knowledge models based on the characteristics of the different areas of the Botanical Gardens at the Public University of Navarra. It was an experiment in cooperative, autonomous learning, using concept maps, V diagrams and CmapTools software. The results clearly illustrate the effectiveness of the teamwork, the high degree to which the students were able to master the targeted instructional techniques, and the importance of these techniques in creative knowledge construction and the acquisition of key basic skills for their future careers. The positive attitude shown by all the students at every stage of the experience added value to the final outcome.