In seminars at different levels (MA / BA), it can be useful to integrate group work, for example, in order to have students discuss a certain issue in smaller groups prior to debating it in class or to prepare an assignment such as a presentation together at home.
However, students do not necessarily have the same background, knowledge and critical thinking skills, and this can lead to an asymmetric work load and communication problems. Therefore, the question arises which methods are useful to avoid asymmetric work load and enhance effective group work of students.
Dear Monika,
Perhaps the most straightforward answer is to view diverse student backgrounds as an advantage rather than a disadvantage. For example, it might encourage peer instruction as the best way to learn is to teach others.
If you are able to emphasise different strengths in group work then students might learn to appreciate each other as they take on different roles.
A workgroup-oriented methodology that works great for us is Design thinking. We apply it in a context that seems similar to yours: students with different backgrounds that should productively work together.
Basically, DT is a methodological approach to problem solving in a creative way. Design thinking encompasses a collection of methods and processes best tuned to investigate problems that are not sharply defined, situations where the actual user requirements are not crystal clear for many different reasons, like problems that are addressed for the first time, or changing technological requirements, or evolving social or economic environments.
Design thinking can be seen as a design- and user-oriented way of thinking. It combines knowledge acquisition with a deep understanding of the context where problems are originated, with creativity to present novel solution proposals and with rationality to confront such solutions with the limitations imposed by reality.
This methodological approach was originally applied to design, and from there, it was adopted in many different fields (engineering, management, economics, urban planning, sociology…). Design thinking is starting to play more and more relevant role in the field of education at all levels. A key reason for this is the role of design thinking to dramatically improve the students’ problem-solving abilities, to foster collaboration among students with different backgrounds, and to expand student perspectives.
Something very interesting about design thinking is that it considers the vision of real people, to understand their feelings and needs, and to be aware of the social and ethical impact of the solutions provided.
You may google "Design Thinking" for further insight and/or related resources.
I have the asynchronous debate to be successful in group work. Here's an example of the this success:
Conference Paper Debating: A Dynamic Teaching Strategy for Motivating Student...
One of the oversights we have with group work in especially graduate education is that we assume students have acquired the team work skills along their life's journey only to discover that they struggle to complete group work and projects. As such, please ensure that you determine the students' team work skills and do the necessary training for closing any gaps found before embarking on team work.
Best regards,
Debra
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