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Getting started
This is the 'forming' stage of the project when the group comes together and starts to consider the task in hand. 
| Episode 1 from the group work resource This episode looks at the issues faced by a group of students meeting for the first time. |  | Episode 2 from the group work resource This episode looks at allocating tasks and setting goals. |  | Episode 3 from the group work resource This episode considers the approach to the project task. |  | Listening & interpersonal skills Group work involves both listening and interpersonal skills. If you would benefit from developing these skills take a look at the listening and interpersonal skills topic page. |  | Group aims and objectives This handy checklist from Aston University will help you to define the project's aims and objectives. |
Getting started - some hints and tips from the Centre of Teaching and Learning at Harvard University.
Managing conflict
Most groups do experience conflict at some point during a project; this is often referred to as the 'storming' phase. By understanding what causes conflict, situations can often be diffused and the group can move on.  | Episode 4 of the group work resource This episode considers the causes of conflict within a group situation and discusses methods of prevention and diffusion. |  | Episode 5 of the group work resource This episode considers the role the tutor can play in helping groups manage conflict and disagreements. | | | |
Problems and solutions - some hints and tips from the Centre of Teaching and Learning at Harvard University.
Participation
Group members often complain that not everyone is pulling their weight, or sub-groups form within the group causing friction. These issues can often be quickly dealt with through discussion and appreciation of individual strengths.  | Episode 7 of the group work resource This episode looks at participation and the formation of sub-groups. | | | |  | Barriers to participation This information page from the Open University discusses barriers to participation including anxiety and lack of confidence. |
How people function in groups - some hints and tips from the Centre for Teaching and Learning at Harvard University.
Assessment
Assessment is one topic that groups frequently have concerns about. Who assesses the group project: the tutor, their peers, or do they assess each other? In some cases the project is assessed in several different ways in order to provide a fair record of achievement.  | Episode 8 of the group work resource This episode looks at the different types of group assessment and discusses their merits. | | | |
Support & feedback
Group members are usually supportive and keen to help each other develop skills; however some groups do have a competitive element and negativity can creep in. By evaluating performance and providing constructive feedback a group can develop and excel.  | Episode 9 of the group work resource This episode provides examples of both negative and constructive feedback. |  | Episode 10 of the group work resource This episode shows each student providing an evaluation of the project and an assesment of the other group members. |  | Group work reflection This video resource devloped by the RLO CETL shows students reflecting on their group project. |
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