Logo image
Back
Engendering good learning in group work
Journal article   Open access   Peer reviewed

Engendering good learning in group work

Michael Christie, Fariba Ferdos and Nina Kann
Pedagogical Papers Series, Vol.Summer
2008
pdf
PDF - Author Accepted Version74.62 kBDownloadView
Accepted VersionPDF - Author Accepted Version Open Access

Abstract

Curriculum and Pedagogy
In this paper we report on a project to improve the quality of learning in group work at a University of Technology in Sweden. The paper gives some of the background to the project, its aims and objectives and the work that has been done to date. It also raises a number of questions about the use of group work and proposes some practical ways in which we can make it more effective. Some of these questions are pedagogical. What is the purpose of the particular group work we are using? How can we best achieve our purpose? How will we know if we have been successful? How can we do it better next time? The first question involves the development of clear learning outcomes for group work. These learning outcomes can be both generic and specific. If we use group work to develop generic capabilities how do we define, engender and evaluate them? If we are concerned about gender and equity, for example, what is the nature of that concern? If we perceive there are problems of gender and equity awareness in our student groups what are they exactly and how do we solve them? In this project we began by developing a simple but effective model of group work. At the same time we investigated current group work in two engineering programs, one for first year chemical engineers and one for beginning electrical engineers. Our paper reports on the results of the project, including suggested reforms of the courses we evaluated. Finally we draw some general conclusions about engendering good learning in group work.

Details

Metrics

16 File views/ downloads
238 Record Views
Logo image