Blog Post #13

What Did I Leave Out?
I will be teaching 6-12 Math and in my future classroom I plan to use the Flipped Classroom method. This teaching technique will require several 21st century learning techniques, such as collaboration. A large portion of our class time will be spent in groups. Learning to collaborate with peers will help students understand what it is like to work with diverse personalities.

What are some things that help a group function properly? What steps should you take in order become a core member of your group? How will learning to collaborate benefit your future? Here are several videos and articles to gather information. It may also be beneficial to ask your mom, dad or family members how important it is to be able to work well with others.
How to do Group Work.
Randy Pausch's Tips for Working Successfully in a Group.
10 Tips For Working Effectively in a Group.
Benefits of Group Work.

Group work can be difficult, especially if it is a long term project. Group projects require additional time outside of the classroom. Everyone has different schedules so it becomes difficult to agree on a time to meet. There are also different types of people that make group work difficult. There are those who do not contribute but also want to put their name on the final product. These are several tips to remember when working in a group:

• Start with a proper introduction- Come with a positive and enthusiastic attitude. Be friendly, get to know each other and exchange phone numbers.
• Be flexible- It can be hard for everyone to meet all of the time at the same time. Try your best to make the group a priority.
• Be honest- State your opinion in a kind way.
• Let everyone talk- Let everyone state their thoughts.
• Praise each other- Encourage each other's ideas no matter how big or small it may be.
• Avoid conflict- When tension arises, take a break.
• Come prepared-When your group meets, bring all information needed to complete the task for that day.
• Don't leave it up to others-Do your part. Don't assume someone else will do it.

These tips can be applied to any type of group work. I think that groups can work well if every member puts in the effort. It takes each member doing their individual part. When the group meets and discusses the project, each member must insert their ideas and thoughts. If everyone can keep in mind the common goal the group will have a successful outcome. Every job will require you to work with others. Learning to collaborate with your peers can benefit your working skills when you enter into the workforce. Communication is also vital to teamwork. Through communication you will learn to work out differences among other associates. Collaboration will also improve problem solving skills. Differences will arise in any group or workplace but if you can work together to solve the problem it will not destroy the project. A perfect group is impossible when combining many different personalities but applying some of these tips can help.