I always use a random selection method to form work groups. When students select their own group it almost always becomes a clique type group. If I select the group, there is always someone that thinks I wasn't fair to them. Random selection prevents these problems and, I think, is more like a real life situation. Once a group is formed, I feel each person should have some work assigned. If this dosn't happen the more agressive students will take on most of the work and the more timid or the more lazy will gladly relinquish their share of the work.
I need this approach as my classes are generally small.
Ziaul,
I believe this is about the ideal size for a group.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
We organize students number 4-5-in a group.
I believe groups of not more than 4 students are the best option. Anything over 4 gives the students that are not as productive too many ways to sneak out, and be more passive than contributive. Personally I prefer 2 people in one group. In the past, I have put weaker students together with stronger ones, in the hope that the weaker students will pick up their pace and thrive for better work cheered on by the stronger students. Unfortunately, that did not always turn out the way I had hoped. Group projects are a nice change, but I yet have to find the right strategy to get a more balanced work. I like the idea of assigning different parts of a project to each student. Will try that next!
I think having student groups is a good idea it will get them to interact with students that are not right next to them in class but interaction with more and getting to know each other. I teach medical billing and would like to incorporate this into my class. I'm just trying to figure how?
I cannot agree more that diversity in a group help the students see the information from different perspectives.
At the beginning of the term, I allow my students to select their own groups. After I have learned each student's personality, work ethics, and learning style, sometimes I make some changes so that one group does not consist of all of the "A" students, or students that have some personal experience in the topic area.
Mathias,
this is a good idea & even having them share, in the group, what was the most significant/impactful thing they learned in today's lesson.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
I agree that this is what happens in most cases. I have heard many times students saying that they are in a group and that they are the only ones doing the work. I think smaller groups work better.
I usually just have them count 1 to how many groups I want to create and have all the 1's get together and the 2's get together and so on. Then it breaks up the class pretty well. If it is an assignment I want different expertise in I will pick and choose the groups myslef. I really enjoy giving my class group work.
At the end of a long day of class I like to get the students into groups of three or four and maybe playing a fun game of "Hang Man" or something to review wht we went over and what we will be going over the next day. I love ending class seeing smiles on the students faces.
Knowing the students background helps when making group selections because some of them can lead to helpers/leaders. I've learned to try and identify who are personal friends in the room and try to not have them in the same group.
Donald,
I think this is a good idea & can be very positive if you have the requirements laid out as you do. This way, it's clear what needs to happen.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
Donald,
I think this is a good idea & can be very positive if you have the requirements laid out as you do. This way, it's clear what needs to happen.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
I have organized students by having them count numbers and then the groups are made that way. I think that when I do this, then the students in the group have to work together. If the group has an issue, then we find a solution to resolve it.
I allow the students to choose their groups. This provides them with a sense of ownership.
I have a set of rules and they know that I will separate them if them do not complete the tasks assigned. It becomes a challenge.
the main thing is to have a good diverse group.
In order to ensure that the outcome of forming student groups is effective, the instructor must attempt to select a diverse and balanced group. With that said, a group of five or six students will essentially enable all members to participate in the project. Additionally, members of the group must be diverse in skill, enthusiasm, knowledge, and past experiences, as diversity will enhance the outcome of the project.
Being at a joint military university we use service, rank, and specialty to organize our groups. This allows diversity to be guarenteed.
