Student Groups
I have found the need to change student groups on occassionally. I agree with the module and try not to, but sometimes it is best for everyone. I find simply exchanging a few students here or there can make them stand out as a troublemaker and does not work well. I completetly redefine all
groups with all students. This puts everyone on an even playing field and seems to work well.
Working in groups helps students to get to know each other, assist each other and look out for each other. The quiet or reserved students will become more integrated and the more confident students will be there to lead. These bonds that are created in the classroom will hopefully become friendships and will continue for years.
I use student groups to bring out new ideas with the subject we are on. Also I change up groups to see if the gruops come up with different ways to approch the subject or is there out come the same. Some times you will find a person that always takes charge and the out come is very similar each time with that group he or she is in.
I agree. Students need to understand the value of teamwork and the value of respecting different perspectives on any given task. Although team members may all come from different backgrounds with diverse experiences focus on the assignment including the desired outcomes is critical. Being able to respect each other with trust that each member will produce is another layer to a successful outcome.
I agree that it is sometimes a good idea to change groups. You can play on a student's strengths and help to make each student be an active participant in the group if you monitor and reassign groups in an effective way.
Jennifer,
I agree. Splitting up groups in diversly populated classes can help to expose students to new ideas. I use groups a lot in my classes. I do not split up my group for the final project, but I randomly create groups for my day to day in class activities. This way they get to work with different students and they can implement their new ideas into their final group project.
Afrodite Tsiakopoulos
Hi Marla! Good point! Changing groups also, of course, creates an opportunity for students to be exposed to other ideas, characteristics and diversities. I have found that each time a group changes, so do the communication dynamics, so the exoectations for the group, the ground rules and the clarification of team member roles and responsibilities most likely need to be revisited.
Thanks for your comments,
Jay
ED106 Facilitator
I agree. When groups have the same students throughout, there tends to be a reliance on certain members of the group to get the work done. There are usually a few that don't put in as much effort. If you switch the groups I fell the students will be more likely to participate, just because they do not know the work efforts of their other group members.
I agree.
Students need to be able to learn to work with all sorts of people. Also- but splitting up the groups- there is a less chance of cheating, and cliques forming.
Sometimes splitting up groups- especially in classes with diverse populations- it helps to expose students to other ideas and methods.
