![\"Cherry](\"http:\/\/blogs.oregonstate.edu\/osuteaching\/files\/2017\/03\/P1100646-150x150.jpg\")
<\/a>Creating equitable work groups is an issue, as you know, of great importance. \u201cEffective collaboration\u201d is not only an institutional outcome it is authentic preparation for life.<\/p>\nStudents figure out rather quickly that we assess what we value. Clearly preface<\/em> group work by outlining the importance of, practicing and mastering, effective collaborative skills; explain it is necessary preparation for the world of work and citizenry.\u00a0 Clearly outline expectations:\u00a0 you expect equitable work and the group will be \u201cgraded accordingly.\u201d<\/p>\n In this case, collaborative participation must be a percentage of the grade: the success of the group must count towards each individual’s final grade. (This encourages commitment to equity\u2026unless there is a significant emergency of one group member, group members are required to figure out how to collaborate as a group.\u00a0 This is not really an issue with today\u2019s technology).<\/p>\n Provide the students with the Collaboration and Equity Rubric<\/a>: tell them clearly that each person will independently and confidentially evaluating their group\u2019s performance using the rubric as the metric.\u00a0 Explain you will collect the evaluations at the completion of the task. (There are a number of ways to ensure individuals’ responses remain confidential; Canvas is an option as students can post without others seeing their work.)<\/p>\n Please note, according to the rubric students’ assessments require data for evaluation of the group’s performance; if someone is identified\u00a0 by group members as someone who didn’t contribute equitably, that individual <\/u>receives a lower rating that the rest of the group members. Do not assign the group a grade; always grade collaboration skills on an individual basis.\u00a0 If your class is small enough you can evaluate your students’ participation levels in class; those who are not contributing can be encourages and supported by you (during the quarter) in the improvement of their collaborative skills.<\/p>\n When we directly clarify expectations and evaluate them, it communicates we value the skill necessary for full citizenry and the world of work.<\/p>\n The Collaboration and Equity Rubric<\/a> is for your use, reflection and revision.<\/p>\n Have a great break!<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" Dear Colleagues, Even though it is the end of the quarter and your hearts and minds are on the closure of winter quarter, I thought I would post a support for your spring quarter courses.\u00a0 We are often asked how … Continue reading