setting up groups
Putting studnts in groups is a great way to increase retention and motivate the students who have a hard time with understanding, or who just sit in class and don't ask any questions.
Some students definitely tend to ask other students before asking instructors because they may feel more comfortable with their peers.
I do the same thing with placing my students in groups. However, I communicate groups expectations/rules and at times will incorporate peer evaluation.
I tend to form groups that will place some of our slower students with some of the more advances. At first it usually presents some challenges but it usually gives the advanced members some leadership skills and the slower students get a classmate that also serves as a mentor.
I agree, students in groups helps to increase retention and motivate them to deepen their understanding and learning management
A leaning dynamic that is often overlooked centers around students learning from each other.The teacher is intrumental as a guide and facilitator but peer learning, modelling and mentoring is a powerful tool that any teacher can and should utilize. The teacher is not the font of all wisdom.
They seem to ask the other students questions before ask the instructors.
One of the challenges instructors encounter is having students of diverse learning capabilities--slow-learners and fast-learners.
After evaluating each student's overall performance, I decide which ones I "promote" and assign them their own "department" (group). I monitor and evaluate each group's performance and grade them individually and as a group for teamwork.
I also encourage friendly competition where team leaders can be replaced by their team members if they don't stay on top.
yes putting studnts in groups works will
