the group thing works, but on about the 3rd day i move the groups and now group up all of the students that are less motivated, this way they are forced into working.
Hi Tangelia!
I have suggested that group work be short in duration. I feel are more engaged because they know they have to act quickly and the "lazy" student doesn't really have a chance to not get engaged.
Good job!
Jane Davis
Ed107 Facilitator
Group learning is great in most educational environments. Students tend to open up more and ask questions for clarification or understanding that they might otherwise never ask for fear of the instructor thinking they are slow or stupid. Students also tend to relate on the same level as other students and may grasp material better coming from a peer instead of the "all knowing" instructor. Some students are easily intimidated and no matter how hard you try as an instructor sometimes you can only break the information down so far. At this point, groups are a great way to fill those gaps. This has been very benficial in the dental hygiene program from day one and is incorporated in almost every course.
Groups are important and effective and group work can really enhance the learning.
Group work is very important because it promotes unity in the workplace or school environment. But, as you stated, it may be some who do not work well in groups. That does not mean, of course, that they are good workers, but, it does mean that they may have to make some adjustments. I think that this is a process that most people have to work on at one degree or another.
I agree it is important to have a good mix inthe groups , what I usually do is watch everyone real close the first time around and see who gets it and who has difficulty with the project , then I place those who are fast learners and place them with the slow learns to help them along . It usually works , the fast learner likes to help out .
Hi Robert!
You are so correct - groups have to be closely monitored. Under best laid plans, groups still seem to struggle.
Before I do another "for-grade" group project, I hope to come up with a better strategy for helping students be successful.
How do you assign your students to groups; how do grade them and do you have them grade each other. Do you give a rubric with expected outcomes?
Keep up the good work!
Jane Davis
ED107 Facilitator
