Each university essay, assignment or project comes with the need to plan and organise yourself well. It’s tricky solo and somehow seems even more daunting when group work is involved. Don’t worry. Even the most challenging coursework can be made manageable with some preparation.
So, take a deep breath, follow these tips and soon you’ll be managing group work efficiently and effectively.
Be inclusive
There will likely be a big mix of people in your group. People of different ages and cultures, who come from a range of different backgrounds. It’s important to be respectful of everyone in your group. Respect how their beliefs and experiences might inform their way of working and respect how their culture might inform their opinions. Make sure that everyone has the chance to voice their ideas and make suggestions. This is a ‘group’ project after all. Use all that variety and insight to achieve something wonderful.
Take on different roles
Are you an alpha character that likes to be in charge? Why not take a different role for this group project? Try to follow someone else’s leadership for a change. Similarly, if you find you’re always the follower, always the one that goes along with whatever is suggested, try stepping up to become a leader. Switching roles like this will challenge everyone in the team and encourage you all to listen to one another and actively participate.
Be punctual
It’s important to be considerate and arrive at the arranged time. If you know you are going to be late, and it is unavoidable, make sure you contact everyone to let them know. If you are late, you are not just risking your own grades, you are risking the grades of everyone in the group. It helps to have a WhatsApp group for everyone so you can exchange information quickly and easily.
Find your niche
Make sure you understand where each team member’s strengths lie, and split the workload to utilise them fully and achieve the best outcomes. If you’re brilliant at research, then you should take this on and work to the very best of your ability. It’s essential that the whole group knows what they’re working towards and what the timescale is. It’s also essential that you deliver quality work when you’re supposed to.
Be sociable
Group work doesn’t need to be a hassle. It’s a nice break from the normal essay writing or exams. One of the best things about group work is that it’s a great way to meet new people and make new friends. Plus, you can combine your group work time with a nice cup of coffee in a cool café for a more relaxed and fun way of working.