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Tips for Working in GroupsIdea

Michelle Wagner compiled the following list of tips on group work from her colleagues. 

"Try to make a set time to meet once a week." -Kristy Polland

“Make sure to pick one person for your group who you know is a hard worker, but don’t underestimate the abilities of people who are taking a Phil class for the first time.  They often bring insightful ideas to the group.”-         Kelly Flood

“Try to initially divide up the work load as evenly as possible.  Otherwise, one person may become overloaded and ultimately stressed out beyond belief.  In the end the entire group suffers.” -Michelle Wagner

“Trust you own originality and do not be afraid to voice your opinion.  Different ideas are not always bad.”  -Anonymous

 “Don’t be afraid to admit it if you need help.  It’s better to be upfront with your group in the beginning, rather than let them down at the last minute.”  -Anonymous

“Try to make the most of all group meetings.  Although it may seem like you have a lot of time before a presentation, it’s amazing how quickly it runs out.” -Anonymous

“Realize that everyone has a life outside of group work, including work and other groups.  Complaining about your situation only wastes time and will not do any good.”      -Anonymous 

“Once you establish a reputation as a “bad group member,” it will haunt you for the rest of your Communication classes.”-Anonymous

“Compliment other group members when they do something well or go out of their way to do more work.  If someone feels their work is unnoticed or unappreciated, they will quit trying.” -Anonymous

"Respond promptly to e-mails from your group members. It's a hassle trying to organize group meetings or finish up a project when you have not heard back from anyone in your group. No matter what, pull your weight! If you can't make a group meeting because of a schedule conflict (and it happens to all of us at some time or other), make an effort to work on part of the project on your own and e-mail or give what you've done to your other group members. Even if your group gets a good grade on the project, your grade could be lowered if everyone else turns in evaluations stating that you didn't contribute. Listen to everyone's ideas. No idea is a bad idea, and if you are all willing to listen to each other it makes it much easier to get things accomplished."  - Michelle Stark

   

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