Working in small groups.
I start my course with students working as teams on specific tasks, then gradually work into individual assignments. This allows students that are already familiar to some degree with certain processes help those that are not. Those students that may have struggled working alone are brought up to a level where they can perform successfly when the assignments become their individual responsibility. All involved gain confidense in their abilities. Both those abilities they may already possess and those they are developing. I believe this enhances the students' security in the learning environment.
Hi John! I also recently implemented this first-day team assignment in all of my classes. As you stated, this is a great way to bring all levels of knowledge into an assignment and serve as a confidence builder for those student new to or even more advanced in the subject. This gives me an opportunity as an instructor to walk around the classroom, observe students at work and provide opportunites for students to ask me questions. Since this is a first-day activity, I also have each group report back to the class with their findings and introduce their team mates to the class (a 2-in-1 activity!). I have noticed that students who worked together on this very first assignment will sit together for the remainder of the term. Thanks for sharing your ideas!
Prof. Wasson
I also use the individual, small group, then larger group method when reviewing for big tests. I give out a review packet and have students work on it individually. Then I put students into small groups to compare answers and get concensus on responses. Then, we go through each question, and I ask one person from each group to discuss their answer with the bigger group. This works especially well with groups of new students that may be more shy!
I find that this is a key element in connection to the idea at hand and to involvement in the class. I watch to see who is contributing. I often let them contribute to a quiz question. They discuss the possible answers. I often hear, "I heard HER say . . . " I love it!
During my first class, after first learning names,I have students pair off with someone they
don't know and interview them. They then stand
together and introduce the other to the class.
I give them all a student inventory, which I keep,with some suggested questions. In each class students have found a connection with each other, Twice I have had students from the same city and state who did not know each other until coming to my class. Two girls made arrangements to drive home together during break. Another time two found out they worked at the same place and car-pooled to the job.Many students bonded
after that and helped each other throughout the term. I told them they might have to introduce a
guest speaker at a company meeting, so this was
good practice. In any case, it is a good ice-
breaker and helps the students feel more secure.
John, great use of groups and individual achievement. Both are important and can be used together. A student's grade should not depend on the work efforts of others but a well designed grading rubric can go a long way towards ensuring each student is rewarded for their efforts and those that are not willing to participate will be easily discovered.
Regards,
James Jackson
That's an excellent approach, I use it as well especially if it's a brand new class where students don't know each other yet. It gives them a boost to feel more secure and it helps me to start my class in a positive way.
Gloria, love this activity. Others should read and use where appropriate. Thanks for sharing.
James Jackson
I believe this is the best approch. I get new students every month and always encourge student involvement and t.p.i or total particapation involvement. Just make sure the other person knows what they are talking about.
Richard, great point. Not all students may be coming from the same entry point of knowledge so it is critical that you as the instructor ensure you set the stage of what you consider the base level of knowledge and understandings of all students in your classroom.
James Jackson
I is true that when students work in small groups, they get more involved and they feel more secure,and they learn better
I use small group activities such as(Jeopardy) when reviewing for tests. This really builds a rapport within the class! They feel secure about the material that is learned and the students are usually impressed with all of the content covered in the course.
Kathleen, making learning fun can greatly increase student engagement and enhance long term memory.
James Jackson
The first day of class I have assign the teams.
When there in lab and also when we review they're in their teams. This way they can talk about the correct way to accomplish their task.
