Keeping on course and being productive are not someting to be measured each group must work with what they have and who they have. Although checking to see how the group is running and moving forward is the key.
Richele,
this is a great strategy; be involved rather than just turning them loose.
Dr. Ryan Meers
keep the groups on course by monitoring each group, walking around the room viisting each group,answering questions, observing the dynamics of the group and progression of the project.
I usually keep my students focused by assigning them a task that relates directly to what we have just discussed and based upon a student question, rather than coming from "me". Even if I don't get a directly related question, I can usually play with it and make it seem like it was student driven. This encourages them to participate more as they are being heard.
It's important to ensure that you have complete comprehension when assigning students group tasks. Each member must understand the outcome. I always ensure that the leadership role is spread out and never given to the student who is the most vocal or 'eager to please'. I usually pick the shy ones and encourage them to lead. This brings them out and provides them with instant feedback and the realization that they CAN do it.
w,
I really like the idea of having them turn in notes, etc. Gives a little more accountability.
Dr. Ryan Meers
What I took from the course content was that the first assignments had to be within the groups ability. The assignment had to be specific as to an outcome. The instructor needs to give examples of what acceptable contributions to the groups can be. Finally each member of the group must contribute (no slackers and no individual dominates the group). I like the idea of each group grading its members because I struggle with how the instructor can grade objectively if the group passes in work. How can the instructor know the value of each member.
My struggle has been that class attendance has made it hard to keep groups together and use the same group for an entire semester (four weeks).
Tracking! If the Students know that you are not only monitoring their grades but also their progress, attendance, infractions, etc they know you care and are keeping them accountable.
When I divide my class into groups I walk around and listen to make sure they don't veer of course. Also, I will appoint one student to be a secretary to take notes and report on what the group discussed. This way the students know they will be held accountable for the discussion group time.
Checking for retention often and providing individual feedback outlining both what they are doing well and areas they should focus on, offering help in those areas.
Sandhya,
yes I think these checkpoints are essential & very helpful to the group itself.
Dr. Ryan Meers
Monitor, provide checklist questions for responses, require presentation of findings, step in for a minute or two to answer questions or get pulse of what is happening within each group.
Leon Guendoo
Having an outline of work that is to be covered by a group is essential. The outline must also include some kind of time schedule of when key components need to be completed so that the group stays on task. In addition, I have also asked the group to submit an outline of what topics are going to be covered and which group member is going to be responsible for it.
During "Group Time" I walk around and check the progress of each group. This also gives them an opportunity to ask questions.
I keep the pace of the class... If a group moves ahead they may mis an important stop in the process
Stephanie,
this is a great strategy as it demonstrates your engagement & also helps keep them accountable to their work/task.
Dr. Ryan Meers
I like going around the room and asking every group questions about the topic they are assigned to.
James,
I hope you will find some great & helpful ideas. Best wishes!
Dr. Ryan Meers
I learned alot from this course. It is sometimes difficult to keep a group on task. By applying the skills I have learned in this course it will allow for better time management and active participation by all members in the group.
Yes, I worked for a decade in a non teaching role in a public school district. I learned that while I might want to teach at a High School level, I knew I would prefer adults. For the past year I have worked at a career college and do really enjoy this role. But, as mentioned, some of my younger (and not so younger) students bring in HS like attitudes that make group activities difficult. I teach the technology side of multiple disciplines here, with the group method necessary because of the technology requiring hands-on group activities to learn thoroughly. I have not yet mastered the creation of appropriate group activities, primarily due to the difficulty in keeping groups on task. I will continue to look over all of this forum for ideas.
