Getting the most from your group work as a student 

The Foundation Degree course team acknowledges the value of group work activities as an important part of the student’s learning experience.  Burke (2011) highlights a number of benefits including: 

• Group work generates more ideas than an individual working on their own 
• Group work stimulates creativity and increases problem-solving abilities 
• Group discussions are more easily retained and foster active learning 

• Group work allows students to gain a better understanding of themselves 
• Group work fosters interpersonal skills, collaboration, teamworking and professional development 

Group formation 

Groups have been selected to maximise and stretch learning by allocating individuals from a range of different services and employers.  The expectation is that all members will participate and share their relevant experiences. 

Top tips for group work 

1. Set ground rules for your group, such as maintaining confidentiality and ways to manage distractions. 

1. Take time to get to know the members of your group, their strengths and individual ways of working Turning your camera on for online group work may help you to engage with others. 

1. Recognise and value everyone’s contribution and opinion. 

1. If the group work involves a task, designate roles such as a lead person to coordinate the group, capture key points and provide feedback.  It is expected that everyone will take a turn at leading the group 

1. Involve everyone in discussion, acknowledging different personalities. 

1. Be clear on the task and time scale to ensure completion of the allocated activity. 

Problems that might occur and potential solutions 

Group conflict 

Sometimes, groups may not work well together.  Changes to the group are likely to disrupt the dynamics so it is important to work through disagreements and find resolution.  Allocation of a lead for the task, designation of roles and establishing ground rules may all help to reduce conflict. 

An individual may dominate the discussion which may result in group dissatisfaction 

Extroverts prefer to participate actively in tasks, speaking loudly and expressing their ideas orally.  Introverts prefer to observe quietly.  Be mindful of different personalities and invite all members to participate. 

Some group members may rely too heavily on others to do the work 

Ensure all group members are aware of the required task and assign specific roles.  Provide praise and constructive feedback where appropriate to address behaviour rather than individuals.