Social interdependence theory, developed by David and Roger Johnson, posits that the way goals are structured determines how individuals interact, which in turn creates outcomes. This means when people’s goals are linked, their outcomes are affected by their own actions and the actions of others. The theory identifies two types of interdependence: positive, where individuals cooperate to achieve shared goals, and negative, where individuals compete to hinder each other’s goals. Key elements of positive interdependence in cooperative learning include positive interdependence, individual accountability, promotive interaction, social skills, and group processing.Â