The further we get into the semester, the more group projects that arise. Since it’s my junior year and I’m deep into my major studies, group projects are inevitable–in every class.
Working in groups has become the bane of my existence this semester but there are ways to make it manageable and more effective. Below are 5 ways to make it through dreaded group projects.
1) Exchange information (cell phone numbers and emails) right away. That way your group has an easy way to communicate and schedule meeting times. Also, try to find a meeting time that works for everyone and stick to that day for future meetings so it’s consistent.
2) Delegate tasks. Don’t try and do all the work yourself. That will only lead to being overwhelmed and bad group evaluations. Divide up the work and conquer the group project together.
(dont be this guy)
3) Find the right meeting spot. Unless needed, don’t work on group projects in the library. Not only do you have to be quiet to not disturb others, but group study rooms are always taken. Choose a more relaxed setting like the Beehive so you can talk out your thoughts and maybe even grab a coffee to make it through the evening.
4) Keep group members accountable. Don’t just assign others tasks and get upset when they either do it wrong or not at all. Check up on each other to make sure things are getting done and done right.
5) Don’t wait until the last minute. Once youre assigned your project, start it as soon as possible. Nothing is worse than trying to do a group project two days before when no one is available to sit down and meet. Im not saying finish the whole project a month early, but get started and set deadlines to make it easier on everyone.
(or this guy)
We all hate the dreaded words, “You will all be completing a group project and I have already chosen your group.” Of course we would like to either work alone or with people we already know and trust, but professors do know some things and we can learn from group projects.
So take these 5 tips and try to apply them to your next group project. You never know who you’ll meet or what you’ll learn from other students.
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