Students often report they don’t like working in groups. If the dynamic is off, or others are not participating, group work can be very frustrating. But students need to learn to work together in groups to hone their skills for the workplace and even in personal relationships.

Although working in groups has its advantages, there are also times when problems arise. Beebe and Masterson (2003) list four disadvantages:

1. There may be pressure from the group to conform to the majority opinion. 
2. An individual may dominate the discussion.
3. Some members may rely too heavily on others to do the work.
4. It takes more time to work in a group than to work alone. 

Here are the four ways that faculty can help students work effectively with, and even enjoy, working in groups:

Collaborative learning: Uses activities where learners are working cooperatively in pairs. Keeping the group size small encourages discussion. Set rules for listening to each group member. Involve the GSI or faculty member in the collaboration to set expectations.

Cooperative learning: This instructional method uses small groups to accomplish a common goal. It is important for the instructor to articulate the goal clearly first so students know what to do. This method facilitates students' own opinions and research by encouraging them to speak up with the help of a moderator.Use technology to encourage the quieter students to participate. 

Problem-based learning (PBL): PBL is an approach in which students learn about a subject by solving an open-ended problem. Brainstorming is encouraged, and ideas outside the discipline are welcome too. Mind Mapping is one tool used for this type of problem.

Team-based learning: Following individual answers, students join teams and work through problems, appealing when they are incorrect. This method encourages students to use their critical thinking skills and can involve using different roles to assist in the process.

In every group method, making each group member aware of the goals and objectives of the group and assigning specific tasks or responsibilities is vital.

Remind students of the following six advantages to working in a group:

1. Groups have more information than a single individual.
2. Groups stimulate creativity. In regard to problem solving, the old adage can be applied that “two heads are better than one.”
3. Group learning fosters learning and comprehension.
4. Research suggests that students who are engaged in group problem solving are more committed to the solution and are better satisfied with their participation in the group than those who were not involved.
5. Students gain a better understanding of themselves.
6. Teamwork is highly valued by employers (Graduate Outlook Survey, 2010).

If you would like to discuss ways to incorporate any or all of the different styles of group work into your own courses, reach out to the Learning and Teaching Consultants! 

References:

Group Work: How to Use Groups Effectively, The Journal of Effective Teaching, Vol. 11, No. 2, 2011, 87-95 l. https://uncw.edu/jet/articles/vol11_2/burke.pdf

Communicating in Small Groups: Principles and Practices, 11th Edition, 2014 by Steven A. Beebe, John T. Masterson. ISBN-10: ‎020598083X