| Title | Group work in science, engineering, and mathematics: Consequences of ignoring gender and race |
| Publication Type | Journal Article |
| Year of Publication | 1998 |
| Authors | Rosser SV |
| Journal | College Teaching |
| Volume | 46 |
| Pagination | 82-88 |
| Keywords | assessment, Classroom climate, collaborative learning, Communication, Diversity Institute Literature Review, Group work, Minorities, Stereotypes, teaching, Women |
| Summary | Understanding the dynamics of race and gender in group work are critical to the enhancement of learning for all students, especially for women and men of color. Most faculty members are unaware of the research on group work and could greatly benefit from incorporating inclusive group work strategies into their classroom. Rosser discusses the importance of taking into account students' background while setting up groups (size, ability, intersection of race and gender), assigning leadership and group roles (rotation and stereotypes), and designing projects (overcoming resistance and fair assessment). The manuscript is well grounded in the literature and offers many suggestions to improve the classroom environment for all students. |
| Extended Summary | Rosser opens this article with a case description of a "mythical" new associate professor's sincere but misguided attempts to reach diverse students in his class and the unintended negative consequences of his having proceeded without understanding the issues. While more experienced eyes can see where his attempt will lead, the reader is forced to confront the potential of having made similar mistakes or of having been spared some mistakes purely through luck. The paper then details concrete references to small group dynamics research and weaves this body of knowledge back to the real-life challenges of college faculty who want to reach and support students of all backgrounds, especially the brightest.While not reporting on original research directly, this paper integrates other research relating to STEM education. The author describes ways to reach, engage and support minorities, women, minority women, international students and diverse students of all kinds. She discusses ways to ensure that group work is undertaken successfully and is rewarding to students and faculty alike. |
| Recommendations | Group structure and initial setup requires considerably more forethought than it might seem. Do not worry particularly about achieving a diversity mix within small groups, but ensure that all students have some support within groups from similar students. Group size should be related to the task. Group composition must be rotated throughout the semester, and assurances should be in place that all students fill a variety of roles. Group projects should not simply be individual assignments to be done in a group, but should be of a kind that requires cooperative effort. The paragraphs in the heading "overcoming resistance" are so well articulated that the reader is strongly urged to read them in full, as are those relating to ensuring fair assessment within and outside of a student's group work. |
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