I prepare group lessons frequently allowing students to select who they want to work with. I am always amazed at how diverse the groups are through this process. Students also enjoy the autonomy of working in group rather than always sitting through lecture. Occassionally, I create a competition between groups working on the same assignment, allowing them to judge and select which group did the best on the assignment. The winning group always ends up being the group I would have judged to be the best, as well.
I like to walk around the classroom and stop at each group to make sure they are on track.
In the timeframe model, is it a good practice to give small goals/times within the total class frame to keep groups on task and slow the groups down that just want to fly through the assignment?
Elizabeth,
I too like this idea & this is more reflective of the work environment as you do not get to take your friends with you.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
I feel it's important to create the groups rather than allowing the students to group together. This will give more diversity to the group and allowing pairing of stronger students with those that struggle more so with the information.
Susan,
I have learned this myself, that group work is not an excuse for me to check out. I need to help them learn & improve on the skills of focus & group work.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
I give them a dedicated time frame in which to complete the activity. I monitor the groups, maybe asking a short questions to see if they are on time and on the right track. If I see they are "finished" or not doing the work, I will go over and give them a couple of additional questions that will help them rethink the answers they are going to present to the class.
Bryce,
this is a great method as it can help redirect or help them clarify. It also helps them be accountable.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
One of the ways i keep my groups on course is by joining that group momentarily and asking investigative questions to help me understand wether or not they are on pace with the other groups.
Jeanette,
I think the floating & engaging of the groups is very helpful. This helps them stay focused as they never know when you might be poppping in.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
Monitoring the students, floating around the classroom so students know that you are actively interested in their progress. Make sure the students stay on topic and don't get of track with personal conversations. Also let them know that everyone in the group is to participate in whatever activity they are doing.
Jessica,
This really works well and helps the students learn more about project management.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
I like to give a timeframe for when each part of the project is do. If there is research that needs to be done, I like to see what each person has contributed.
i like to put strong students with weaker ones. i think by doing this will help both students. The weaker students will try and keep up with the stronger students. the stronger students will make sure the weaker one get the information and learn with them.
I have found that student groups need a lot of time in class to work on their projects. Students have very busy schedules and I have seen that they sometimes cannot meet outside of class. I give them enough time in class, but not too much time where they will not be productive.
I think what has helped my groups stay on track and productive is that I outline all of the steps for a successful group project. I tell them that they will be graded individually, but also as a group. In addition, I tell them that if a group member does not want to do their part, they have my blessing to do it without that person. Their grade should not suffer because of "shady" individuals.
When I check in I rather than directing or suggesting I ask questions to see where they are headed and why and if it seems they may need help I will ask them questions that may point them in the right direction.
Diana,
this is a great idea & helps keep them on task. I think then having them progress to the point that they take ownership of this themselves is a great way to see the groups grow & progress.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
Each time a group meets, I give them ideas or criteria about what should be accomplished in this group meeting and then at the end of their group meeting I ask them which criteria were met and which were not and how that may affect their group the next time they meet. I also ask them how they are going to meet all criteria in their next group meeting. It keeps them on task and also gives them ideas about what needs to be done.
Amber,
I agree with your statement here. Often the reason that group work fails is because we, as the instructor, have not given it the adequate time & prep it needs to be successful.
Dr. Ryan Meers
Group work needs to be carefully thought through and organized by the instructor. Additionally, orchestration of the process lay on the responsibility of the instructor. As opposed to the concept that the instructor can let the students manage themselves completely. Direction is required for the students to thrive and get the most from the learning environment.
