Working in groups can be challenging but if you work through the process early on, you can really improve the group's performance and have a good experience. Here are some things to consider:
- Plan how you’ll communicate. It is important to set up meeting times, exchange contact information, and define expectations for group meetings.
- Set ground rules. Setting ground rules helps establish and give each group member an idea of acceptable and unacceptable behaviour during the group process.
- Review the assignment together. Make sure everyone has the same understanding of the work to be produced and ensure that any confusions are clarified.
- Assign specific roles and tasks to each member to keep the team organized. For example, project manager, editor, researcher(s), writer(s), etc. (University of Waterloo: Learning Services, n.d.)
- Create a schedule with agreed-upon deadlines to hold teammates accountable.
Check out this video for a few more helpful hints from one of Sheridan's Tutors!
