As you can see, working in groups isn't always easy! Here are some things you can try as well as things to avoid when working with a group.
Do’s:
Set an Agenda so that every team member is on the same page and working towards the same outcome (The University of Queensland, n.d.).
Assign roles to ensure that every team member contributes to the project equally.
Create a shared list. Keep track of each group member’s tasks to ensure each person contributes equally.
Set timelines so that all team members pace themselves accordingly and get their work done in time.
Clarify assignment expectations, such as which parts of the assignment require collaboration. Collaborating on work that’s meant to be done individually is a breach of academic integrity.
Encourage new ideas. Brainstorm ideas so that the final project includes ideas contributed by each team member.
Don’ts:
Don’t dominate conversations or talk over others. Ensure that all members get to share their opinions and raise their concerns (The University of Queensland, n.d.).
Don’t be afraid to disagree. Don’t be scared to share your ideas even though they may not coincide with that of another person
Don’t let personal conflict interfere. Don’t let your personal opinions or feelings get in the way of accomplishing your final goal.
Don’t expect one person to do all the work. Divide the work in such a way that every member contributes to the project equally without burdening someone with most of the work (Kenny, 2019).
Don’t take problems directly with your professor before trying to work them out first within the group.
Don’t move ahead on the assignment without your group’s input. In cases where your group is unresponsive, moving ahead on your own can make group members feel unheard, cause conflict, and ultimately create work you’ll have to redo.
