My Co-operative Adventure

To the Teacher

This lesson introduces students to some of the unique characteristics of co-operatives, namely the co-operative principles. The International Co-operative Alliance Statement on the Co-operative Identity articulates a definition of what a co-operative is and identifies the values and principles that all co-operatives use as guidelines to put their principles into practice (see Appendix A). With the exception of principle six, the law governing co-operatives in Saskatchewan requires that these principles be followed.

Through case studies, students will learn how members of a select group of co-operatives have chosen to put the co-operative principles into practice, and understand the values behind each of the principles. By having an understanding of the co-operative values and principles, students will have insight into why co-operatives are a successful business model of choice for community groups and they will have the needed foundational knowledge for completing Lesson Five.

Lesson One case studies focus on several types of co-operatives. During the pre-assignment discussion, you may want to include an explanation of what co-op members are sharing/working together on in these types of co-ops, to facilitate student learning as they do the assignment.

Pre-Assignment Discussion
1. Have students consider their own experience with organized co-operation and co-operatives, as well as their knowledge of co-operatives that exist in their communities. Leading questions could include:
Recall a time when you recently worked with others to “get the job done.”

• Why did you decide to work with others rather than work alone?
• What were the benefits of working with others rather than alone?

There are many examples, both historically and in present day, when developing a co-operative business has been the most effective way to fulfill a need in a community.

• What are some co-operatives in our community?
• What makes co-operatives a unique form of business enterprise?

2. Teacher introduces the definition, values and principles of co-operatives, found in Appendix A. Full-colour, graphic posters of the co-operative principles and values can also be downloaded from the Saskatchewan Co-operative Association to display in your classroom.

Student Assignment
1. Divide students into seven groups (as there are seven co-operative principles). Hand out one principle/case study example student worksheet to each group. The noted principle will be the group’s focus, and its corresponding case study will provide context and relevance.

2. In their groups, have students review their assigned principle and case
study. Each group will identify a recorder and answer the following:

• Summarize the co-operative principle and the case study in your own words.
• Identify how the principle was meaningful for the people in the case study.
• What is the main benefit of this principle to the co-op’s members?
• Through discussion, determine whether your group feels this principle is a fair way of doing business. Be prepared to explain your decision.

3. Have the student groups present their principle, case study and responses to the above questions. As students listen to their peers’ presentations, ask them to consider how their own principle might have relevance to the people in their peers’ situation.

Bridging
1. Following each presentation, teacher leads class through a discussion on the following:

• Beyond the members, who else in the community might benefit from the practicing of this principle?
• Of the values commonly held by co-operatives, which are particularly reflected in the practicing of this principle?

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