When setting a timed goal for the groups, it ensures they stay on task and gives everyone a chance in the group to participate. At the end of the group sessions, each group is given a little bit of time to annouce their findings to the whole class which keeps them productive.
Renee,
this is a fantastic strategy & helps ensure that they are staying on task.
Dr. Ryan Meers
Assingning someone as the encourager, who warmly encourages everyone to participate, recognizing contributions, demonstrating acceptance of ideas, and being generally responsive to team members. To assign this role may seem artificial at first, but without this role being taken, members may not be reinforced for participating.
I think the number one way to help student groups stay on course and be productive is the type of assignment that is given to them. I believe that the assignment needs to be meaningful and cannot be seen as "busywork." If the students feel that they will actually get something out of the assignment and will gain more by worked cooperatively together they should stay on course and be productive.
Amanda,
this is a great observation & one we all need to keep in mind. While some will still struggle with group work, overall one great way to engage them is to have a meaningful assignment.
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.
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 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.
Jessica,
This really works well and helps the students learn more about project management.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
