Collaborative learning involves students working in teams to discover information, solve problems, and discuss different conclusions. It focuses on student interaction and doing activities in groups. Some key principles are that students are the primary focus, interaction and hands-on work are important, and real-world problem solving should be incorporated. Examples of collaborative learning activities described are think-pair-share, sending problems to groups to discuss, and forming peer writing groups to build papers together. The document suggests collaborative work in groups can help students understand topics and encourages teachers to try this method.