How to better work in a group with peers
Inclusive Practice in Group Work
Group work can present barriers to participation for some disabled students. The following guidance aims to give some good practice ideas.
Pre-assignment – contact your Disability Adviser to discuss any issues or concerns that you may have. You might also like to arrange a joint meeting with your module tutor.
Group allocation – some disabled students can find it difficult to approach a group and integrate. It is advisable for you tutor to allocate group members. Good practice guidelines suggest that rather than random allocation, a more considered approach can achieve more diverse and balanced groups.
Role allocation – as a group you might like to consider weekly rotation of group roles. This can be more inclusive and minimise conflict caused by certain individuals taking on too much or taking on a leadership role to the exclusion of other group members.
Social contract – expected group conduct can be specified in a social contract. Here is an example social contract (shared by Dr Anna Brown in the School of Management, University of St Andrews)
Example Social contract
We [group name] agree to adhere to the following guidelines when engaging in group work and lecture sessions.
- We speak in a common, shared language: English
- We include all group members in meetings, group chats and social events
- We turn up on time to meetings and lectures
- We pay attention and contribute to group discussions
- We contribute equally to the group tasks
- We listen to each other’s opinions
- We share ideas and do not disregard other people’s thoughts or feelings
- We are respectful towards one another and treat each other with care and courtesy
- We allow for ‘failure’ and getting things ‘wrong’
- We complete tasks on time and to the best of our ability
- We do not make assumptions about individual abilities
Diversity and disability awareness good practice guidance – suggest that your group members have diversity awareness training before taking part in group projects. This can foster positive attitudes and understanding of individual differences. You might like to discuss this with your Module tutor and your Disability Adviser.
You can complete online diversity training. The Disability Team can offer specific direction and guidance on disability related group etiquette.
Other useful strategies:
Check-in – mid-assignment check-ins can identify group problems early and support where necessary can be provided.
Reflective group blogs or summaries can help identify areas of good practice and issues that may arise in regard to group dynamics. Group blogs can also be solution focused
Alternative assessment – some students may find it challenging to participate in group projects for reasons related to their disability. It may be that participation can be virtual or another form of assessment can be offered. You can discuss this with your Disability Adviser.