Group learning
I have found that putting students into groups really helps them in their learning. I believe they feel more immersed/involved in the process when it becomes more "hands on", as it tends to while working in a group setting.
i agree with you michelle. having group projects always helps the students to break their shyness. I believe having groups is a big help for the students because they help each other and take a role in the project. I always liked doing group projects because it doesnt make you as nervous as doing the project by yourself where you have to present it by yourself. Also, gives the students more access to understanding their classmates weaknesses and strengths and build from that.
Michelle,
yes the peer to peer learning is a great way for most students to learn, especially those who may be struggling.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
I feel that group learning has it's benefits. I find that the weaker students benefit from group learning because they are more interactive in the group and the other students in the group seem to really help the struggling students.
Jeffrey,
I agree with the idea of mixing & matching the groups if at all possible as it does help with the learning process.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
I like to mix and match students with different abilities. The strong students help the weaker and the learning process is much faster and retention is better.
Adnan,
this is definitely true & the group work or team work skill is much in demand.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
I agree. Group learning helps them to work in a team, something which we prepare students what they will be doing when they are in the field
yes it is but one must be alert of groups which may not cooperate as this may make the problem worse instead of better.
Dan,
this is one of the advantages of groups as it does help those shy students open up & ask the questions they have.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
It's funny to me how students in groups will ask each other questions that they are uncomfortable asking the instructor. Group projects definately makes it easier for some students to get involved in the learning.
David,
and I think it opens the opportunity for them to ask classmates questions or to clarify areas where they may be struggling. They may be more reluctant to ask me, but they will open up to classmates.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
