Kelly, A couple of ideas on groups:
1. it's very important that you have some sort of framework that defines what effective group dynamics and behavior are, such as principles of good professional interaction,and what are the main group problems groups need to watch for--eg blocking behavior, failure to meet responsibilities, dominating discussion. Probably group interaction needs to be taught for directly in class, at least a little. It ties easily into developing research/observation skills, operationalization, etc.
2. I think students should not be placed in the position of actually evaluating their peers as part of the grade. Grading is the instructor's job. I think they should be responsible for giving effective feedback to their peers in the group, and for self-assessment of their own work in a group using a set of criteria, both of which you can evaluate as the instructor.
Hope this is useful.
Steve Sharkey
-----Original Message-----
From: Kelly Goran Fulton <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
To: [email protected]
Sent: Tue, 26 Jul 2005 09:24:54 -0500
Subject: TEACHSOC: group work and assessment
I'm thinking about including some group work in my courses, and would benefit from some feedback.
How do you have group members assess other group members (to reduce the free rider problem)?
Any pitfalls to avoid?
Any tips for success?
Do you assign groups or let them choose group members?
Thanks for the help! (I need it.)
Kelly Goran Fulton
Department of Sociology
University of Texas at Austin
How do you have group members assess other group members (to reduce the free rider problem)?
Any pitfalls to avoid?
Any tips for success?
Do you assign groups or let them choose group members?
Thanks for the help! (I need it.)
Kelly Goran Fulton
Department of Sociology
University of Texas at Austin
