These problems are not like normal homework problems to be done after just reading the chapter. Instead, they are assignments that should be done in the context of an actual group activity to improve group process. Although a group of four or five students is envisioned, the exercises will work with somewhat larger or smaller groups. They are often used during class sessions so that the instructor can provide immediate feedback.

For the last group project completed, each group member fills out the form in Figure 28.1. One group member then collates the responses in a spreadsheet, and the group discusses how the group performed on the project. Finally, the group prepares a list of ways to improve the group work in future projects.

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Group Assessment Please enter a score from 0 (worst) to 10 (best) in each row, for yourself and for your team members. If you enter uniform scores across the board, I know you haven't taken this assessment seriously. A 10 should be an unusual score. Enter your initials in the first column and those of the members of your group in the remaining columns. Leadership 10 Very strong leader, provided direction, inspired and encouraged others 5 Willing follower, took directions easily 0 Frustrated the group, blocked progress, criticized others Cooperation 10 Worked readily with others, outstanding contributor, anticipated requests 5 Cooperated with occasional prompting O Rarely contributed or cooperated, worked alone, had to be coerced Initiative Name 10 Produced good ideas which helped others, "went the extra mile" 5 Accepted other's ideas and improved on them 0 Criticized other's ideas, never contributed original ideas Attitude 10 Positive, enthusiastic, encouraging others to work better 5 Neutral, worked with the group without either enthusiasm or grumbling 0 Negative, complained about the project, worked unwillingly Effort 10 Worked hard on assigned tasks, independently and cooperatively 5 Worked reasonably hard, also socialized a lot. Occasional prodding needed. 0 Didn't contribute much at all, tasks were unsatisfactory. Preparation and conduct of Lab work 10 Enthusiastic, came prepared to meetings and to lab. 5 Came to all meetings, somewhat prepared. Often helpful. 0 Missed lab, was unprepared, we'd have accomplished more without him or her. Writing of report 10 Enthusiastic, contributed substantially to production 5 Contributed everything that was asked. Work needed revision 0 Didn't contribute to the production Preparation and delivery of presentation 10 Enthusiastic, contributed substantially to production 5 Contributed everything that was asked. Work needed revision 0 Didn't contribute. Computation 10 Helped others to understand and use computer tools 5 Good, but not incredible, use of computers 0 Uninterested or unable to use computer tools effectively Grade You have 100 points to divide among your team members. Distribute the points in an equitable manner, where each score reflects effort and contribution, (which aren't always the same.) Assessment of the group 10 Best group I've ever worked with; the project was fun as a result 5 Group sometimes worked well together, with occasional problems (me) 0 Worst group I've ever worked with (or not); this was a miserable experience Σ Who in your group took most of the leadership for this last assignment? > Is your group functioning better, worse, or just differently than at the beginning of the semester? Explain. C. J. Coronella, 2001.