Everyone dreads group projects. Working with others for a shared grade instead of only relying on yourself is extremely stressful for everyone. Since there is almost no way to avoid group projects in college, you can only learn to accept them and make the most of it. So here are some tips on how to get a good group and work well with your group members.
- If you are able to choose your groups, try to make a group with people who are strong in areas where you are weaker.
- You may want to avoid working with your friends, as the group may get off topic and end up having more fun than working on your project.
- Assigning tasks and roles to each group member at the beginning of working together will help assign responsibility, and it is easier to hold members accountable for not completing their work.
- Communication is very important to understand your group mates and if they are on track with their tasks. Communication also helps with assisting other members with problem areas in their section.
- Create a tentative or strict schedule (whatever works best for the type of group setting you have) for when tasks should be completed.
- Keep yourself on track and complete tasks on schedule. If you are constantly working and putting effort into the project, then your group members are more likely to be motivated and work on their tasks as well.
- Have a regularly scheduled meeting time each week, or as often as you need it, so the group can revise each other’s work and discuss the next step in the project.
- Decide if there needs to be a group leader. If there needs to be a leader, then the group needs to vote for who would best fit the position.