Discussion Question 3

[heather...@eagles.usm.edu]

How do you feel about group projects in online courses? What have been
your experiences with it?

[heather...@eagles.usm.edu]

This semester has been my first semester working with groups in an
online class. I have two classes where I have been assigned group
projects this semester. This is difficult and frustrating. In my other
class I got a bad grade because two of the students did not
participate at all. I do not think this is fair and I feel like I have
enough on my plate without having to worry about keeping up with other
student’s work. I can see the benefits of working with a group but I
do not think an online class is a place to instill this especially if
the professor is not willing to see the fact that other students are
not participating.

[Sharon Goff]

I feel that group projects can be challenging at times but can be beneficial to all who participate. Group projects online seem to be more time consuming and demanding than projects that are worked together in a physical setting. At times people perceive what is written in a different manner than it was intended when it was written, this could potentially cause major problems. Good, clear, and constant communication is a must for all members of a group to successfully complete a project together. It is also helpful if all members keep a positive attitude, know what is expected of the group,and how to achieve the goals set.

[Brittany Gardner]

I feel extremely overwhelmed by these group projects. I feel that they are much more difficult and time consuming than face to face meetings. Also, there is very little time to do the work.  I have one set day in the middle of the week to complete my work.  This may not be convenient for others in my group.  I am a huge supporter of collaboration and collaborative thinking. However, I do not always feel comfortable with being held responsible for other students' grades. I can also be uneasy about them being responsible for mine.  This applies to any group work, but beings as this was the first online group work I participated in, I was even more so overwhelmed.  As Sharon said, it is extremely important to keep a positive attitude.  Having a strong group leader never hurts either!