Group activities
I use group activities A LOT. I find that the most learning is done while they are questioning each other, and they don't realize how much team building is being done. It is powerful, and continues to "gel" throughout the quarter. I love it!
The use of group activites gives me a chance to observe the problem solving that the group uses to come up with answer or process. I also watch how students help each other to come to a resolve or teach each other how to remember certain parts of the course outline
I agree. Using small groups and having the students change partners is a really good idea. It helps create bonds between the students that were not there before. I had a class that didnt want to change partners, it had a negative impact on the class.
I, too, utilize group activities occasionally in the classroom. I find that it creates a synergy in the classroom and is the embodiment of teamwork, which is a necessary activity among team members.
Bill
Hi Ryan- Thanks for your post to the forum. You bring up a good point. It does make sense to change group composition often. Teams get into set patterns and dynamics when they work together too often on a regular basis. Best wishes for continued success in your teaching career. Susan
They need to have a new partner each time, otherwise they get too comfortable and lose sight of the whole objective.
Hi Jennifer- Thanks for your post to the forum. Your description of the senior class that works with real clients is intriguing. Can you explain how it works? Thanks! Susan
I teach a senior class that involves a real client so the students take an assessment on the first day and are broken up into "mini agencies" based on this information. It works well in this class and the students build off of one another.
Hi Jan - thanks for your post to the forum! I'm glad that you mentioned varying the small groups so that students are not always working with the same classmates. Best wishes- Susan
I totally agree. Getting into small groups familarizes them with each other and like you said is a team building skill. Part of the activity is that they work with someone new each time. I also learn from them.
