Group Work

The following class items really stood out to me. I'll be sure to include/remember them when it comes time to design.

Offloading with Technology as a Tool: Technology can function as the teacher and help offload/assess the products of collaborative learning. The process of offloading allows students an opportunity for reflection before sharing in a large group. It's like the idea of choral reading vs. round robin reading. We all know that silent, choral or buddy reading are more effective than round-robin style reading. If all students can be simultaneously reading/writing/thinking, it's better. Every student should have an opportunity to experience/reflect and have their thoughts listened to. In a class you'll always have the same kids who want to share - all the time. Offloading allows all students to reflect/contribute. It's just a more effective use of class time.

Socializing Needed for Effective Group Work: Research shows that some degree of socialization is needed for effective groupwork. I think SOME is the operative word. This is why Priscilla is always changing groups on us - this keeps us focused on the task at hand. The changing of collabrative groups & seating arrangments is a key element in planning for an effective classroom! I remember my high school Psychology class. I was in it with 3 or 4 of my best friends - way too much socializing. If I had been grouped with people I didn't know as well, I would have learned more and been a more effective collaborator.