Why and How to Support Students in Team Assignments

Authors

  • Judith Stevenson George Mason University

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.13021/G8RC88

Keywords:

collaborative learning, active learning, experiential learning, digital tools, teaching online

Abstract

Once employed, our graduates will be judged on their ability to be effective team players. In some professions, peopleââ¬â¢s safety and even survival may depend on good teamwork. Yet teamwork assignments in university courses are not generally a popular option. Team projects are often viewed as a difficult and frustrating requirement, by students and faculty alike. Few instructors receive any formal training on how to create effective team assignments or on ways to educate their students about strategies for success in their team activities.à

In this session, we discuss ways to educate students about the value of team experiences in their courses, so that they are motivated to improve their teamwork skills. We examine the dynamics of both face-to-face and virtual teamwork, in workplace environments and in a college setting, so as to understand the underlying reasons for the challenges inherent in team activities. Then finally we explore some techniques that instructors can use to design and deliver team assignments that support a positive student experience. à

Author Biography

Judith Stevenson, George Mason University

I am employed as Instructional Designer and Technologist in the School of Business at George Mason University.à I support all faculty in the School of Business with regard to teaching with technology in both graduate and undergraduate programs.à I have been working as an online designer and developer since 2007, with experience in academic, non-profit, and corporate environments. I received my Masterââ¬â¢s in Instructional Design and Development from the College of Education at George Mason University in 2010.

Published

2016-07-15

Issue

Section

11:20am-12:00pm Mini-Workshops, Panels, & Roundtables