Preparing for Group Assignments at University and College

This guide will help you, the commencing university/college student, prepare for your upcoming group assignments. Group assignments can be very rewarding. However, they can also be very challenging at times. The guide works on the assumption that it is better to be honest and realistic about the situations you might find yourself in; not to worry you, but to better prepare you for what lies ahead.

It is important that you enter group assignments with some understanding of group dynamics and some strategies that you can use from your first day. It is also important that you enter group assignments with an understanding of their purpose and the bigger picture of group work. After reading this guide, you will have a better understanding of what lies ahead with group assignments and how you can start preparing for them.

Written in an informal conversational style, and using a sailing group as a case example, the guide is divided into two parts. In the first part, some of your upcoming experiences are presented. These are: Group growth over time; Setting norms; Making collective decisions; Behaving and responding cycles; Reduction in behaviors; Varying outputs; Conflict; and Positive aspects.

In the second part, several bigger picture issues and suggestions are presented. These are: View group work as a growth opportunity; Know where you need to grow; Document your group experiences and growth; Start positively; Take responsibility for your actions; Embrace diversity; and Seek support.