Savannah Griffith Blog Post # 3

Savannah Griffith   Blog Post # 3         

 Video Choice #1

1.      There are several possibilities for problems when you get diverse groups of students together. Some general problems could potentially be…
Everyone not pulling his or her own weight
Students not being able to agree on an idea, arguing, etc.
Some students being dominant and taking over the project
Losing focus on an extended project
Cell Phones (especially for middle school and high school)
Chewing gum or other activities that would distract group members

2.     I believe contracts would hold students accountable so that they would not feel like they could slack off.  I also think it would keep students on tasks because they would not want to be “fired” from the group. Middle and High school students really care about what their peers think. Imagine being fired from your group in front of all your friends. I think this alone would help my students take a group contract seriously. I plan to make this a major part of group PBL projects in the future. I believe group contracts should be designed with potential problems in mind so that they can hopefully be avoided!

3.     Certain checks and balances would have to be in place for the group contract to work. Perhaps a weekly evaluation of group members. A system, like in the video, where a warning is given if needed. Also consults with the teacher if there are issues that may require some revision within the contract.

Video Choice # 2

1.     I believe assessing how students perform in their group roles is important because it also holds the students accountable. Accountable in their individual roles as well as group roles. This also will help better the student better perform their role. As Mr. Jupp said in the video, it is natural for students to work together. Allowing them feedback on performing in groups will only enhance their future take on real world problems.

2.     I love how Mr. Jupp handles feedback. Rather than talking down and directing the students. He offers suggestions and leaves the role to the leader to follow out the suggestions. This allows students to understand and perform their roles better.

3.     I believe peer assessment helps students realize the seriousness of their work. As I said earlier to some students, the opinion of their peers is all they long for. For me I believe this will make students want to do their best. This gives the students a sense of ownership as well. They feel like the teacher has all control because she/he gives out the ultimate grade, however if they take part of the grading they will most likely be more concerned with the work they produce.

To everyone:         

 In the future, our students will face real world problems that challenge them and everything we taught them. However if we can set up successful PBL’s now that show them real world problems we can hope they will learn something worthwhile. Once our students graduate they will have to work in collaborative group settings whether they choose the college or career path. Learning these life skills now (that fit the criteria) and acting them out in the classroom can only better their chances of a more successful future.