Lesson 2: Group work
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Definition
Group work refers to a multiplicity of techniques in which two or more learners are assigned a task that involves collaboration and communication. In the classroom learners usually, work in groups of 2 to 6.
Educational purposes
Group work techniques can be used to motivate learners, encourage active learning, and develop key critical thinking, communication, and decision-making skills. But without careful planning and facilitation, group work can frustrate learners and instructors and feel like a waste of time.
Benefits
Group work has the following benefits:
- Development of higher-level thinking, social skills, oral communication, self-management, and leadership skills.
- Promotion of learner interaction.
- Increase in learner engagement, commitment, and initiative
- Exposure to and an increase in understanding of diverse perspectives.
- Preparation for real-life social and employment situations
Challenges
Some of the challenges associated with group work include:
- Sometimes all learners speak at once trying to accomplish their task, and this causes noise that may bother others.
- Some teachers may lose control of the class or have difficulties controlling the class, especially in terms of discipline.
- Learners with English as a second language may find it harder to engage in group discussions.
- Learners who lack confidence may find it difficult to contribute to group discussions.
Tips
- Consider learner ability to engage in group work. Mix learners in different groups, boy/girl, confident/less confident, more/less able,
- Clarify expectations and learning outcomes of the group work. This enables learner preparation and focus.
- Consider group size. When planning group work, consider the size that will best suit your outcomes, depending on factors such as time allocation, the complexity of the task, different roles needed.
Ensure your learners have access to facilities in which to conduct group work. Make sure furniture is arranged in circles, use all the space in the room, have enough copies of any resources for each group