Preparing for Group Assignments Guide

This guide provides new/commencing students with important preparatory information regarding their upcoming group assignments.  Written in an informal conversational style and using a sailing group as a case example, the guide is divided into two parts.

In the first part, some of their upcoming experiences are presented. These are:

• Group Growth Over Time
• Setting Norms
• Making Collective Decisions
• Behaving and Responding Cycles
• Reduction in Behaviors
• Varying Outputs
• Conflict
• Positive Aspects

 In the second part, several bigger picture issues and suggestions are presented. These are:

• Viewing Group Work as a Growth Opportunity
• Knowing Where You Need to Grow
• Documenting Your Experiences and Growth
• Start Positively
• Take Responsibility for Your Actions
• Embracing Diversity
• Seeking Support

After reading the guide, students will have a better understanding of what lies ahead with group assignments and how they can start preparing for them.

Available from good booksellers in paperback and e-book formats.

Paperback ISBN: 978-0-6456794-2-7 

E-Book ISBN: 978-0-6456794-4-1   

Most university and college students participate in group assignments throughout their academic studies. Such assignments can be very rewarding. However, they can also be very challenging at times. One option is to let students discover this for themselves. Another is to help them prepare for what might lie ahead. This guide takes the latter approach. It works on the assumption that it is better to be honest and realistic about the situations students might find themselves in; not to worry them, but to better prepare them for group assignments. 

After reading the guide commencing students should have a better understanding of group assignments. They should have a better understanding of their purpose and their internal dynamics. Students will also be introduced to the bigger picture of group work in higher education and have a better understanding how they can prepare for their upcoming group assignments. 

Ideally, students should read the guide and complete the workbook before commencing their studies. Following this, they should then be given the opportunity to discuss their upcoming group assignments and workbook answers with other commencing students and institutional staff. The guide gives commencing students important preparatory information to consider. It is crucial they are given the chance to raise any issues or concerns they have about group assignments and feel supported. These discussions might take place in an orientation session or in a first-year class.