Group comments...

I asked each of you to comment on your groups. Here is my generalized feedback...

- I understand that some of you do not prefer to work in groups. I know that it is not always easy to work in groups. However, I feel that it is very important to this kind of course based on communication with others. I would hope that each of you can see working in groups as an opportunity to learn about negotiating and working with others to create a great outcome. In addition, this gives each of you the opportunity to see where your strengths and weaknesses are in groups and work on them.

- Each person is expected to contribute to the group for credit. If someone does not contribute fully, they will not receive full credit. Groups should work together and share the load. No one should feel liable for anyone else or feel that their fate lies with another group member. If you feel this way, we need to talk.

- I will find out who did what to contribute to unit one learning modules and discussions. In addition, I will track group progress and division of labor on all assignments.

- If group members are absent it is the responsibility of that individual to connect with their group and make up any work or contribution necessary in order to get credit. In addition, absences on days that we work in groups, give speeches, and take tests are unacceptable as a general rule. Only emergency situations will be accepted. This does preclude the first few weeks as I was not in class and do not have a record of attendance.

- Do not get bogged down with group members lack of contribution. As important as it is to work together, I expect individuals to stay on track despite absences and any lack of group participation. If groups feel that they are suffering due to absences and lack of effort, let me know so we can come up with a workable solution.

- In the future, I will try and make sure that groups have plenty of time to work in class. Group time is based on seeing that groups are working on the assignments at hand and not wasting time. If this is the case, then your group will have to find time outside of class to work on any assignments or projects.

- If you do not feel that you are doing your part in your group, talk with your group about what you can do to participate more fully.

- Finding someone to take charge is dependent on the group. Not all groups work the same way and I feel it is important that groups have the freedom to find their own patterns for success. This includes leadership preferences and division of the workload.

- It is extremely important and necessary that all group members show respect for the ideas and opinions of others. It is important that everyone feel they can express themselves without the threat of insult or being shut down.Multiple ideas mean more options and more in- depth discussions. Try to embrace differences of opinions and not take offense so easily!! I ABSOLUTELY WILL NOT TOLERATE DISRESPECTFUL BEHAVIOR TOWARDS ONE ANOTHER. THIS CLASS IS A SAFE ENVIRONMENT WHERE I WANT EVERYONE TO FEEL THAT THEY CAN SPEAK FRindiEELY!!! If this is a problem and you are unable to fix it, please let me know!!!

- Realize that you are not always going to get along with everyone. Realize that you are going to have differences that will make working in a group difficult. This is perfectly natural. Here are my three suggestions: A. approach this situation as an opportunity to find a way to work with someone you do not get along with. B. pull the individual you are having an issue with aside and try to express your feelings to see if you can come to some decision on how you can work together. C. Come and talk with me and we will see what we can do.

- Working in groups does require some out of class communication. There are three ways to do this: A. meet up physically B. exchange emails C. utilize the virtual chat room in elearning or a chatroom elsewhere on the web.

Basically what it comes down to when working in groups (at least in this class) is that you are all expected to do your share. You are all expected to give imput and be respectful of other opinions as well. I am more than happy to help make sure that this happens!!