In the work world we all have to learn how to work with others.  Different positions require different levels of interaction with co-workers but no matter the intensity interaction does occur.  Our students need to learn how to work with others in their classes as they prepare to enter the work world.  The more opportunities we can provide them to work with others the greater service we are offering them in terms of both personal and professional growth.

Putting students into groups is a good way to help them develop skills in working others.  Assigning the groups case studies and/or projects enables them to work with each other while they are bringing to the group their own strengths.  Lay out the assignments so that you can identify and assess each student's contribution to the effort.  This way you will reduce comments from students that say they did all of the work and another student didn't do his/her fair share.  By having specific assignments the students know that they will be help accountable for their contributions as well as the final out come from the group. 

Learning groups can help those students that are not as forth coming in general class discussions because there are fewer people to talk with and thus lower risk of being put in the spotlight.  Each member can bring to the group their life experiences  and expertise which results in problem solving for a common cause.  Use learning groups  for a single assignment and see how it works within your course structure.  If successful you will have added another very valuable teaching tool to your instructional delivery teaching kit.