For the 3rd ONL lesson, we were introduced to the concept of collaborative learning. Instead of writing, I recorded a video on how I encourage collaborative learning in my teaching. Unfortunately, wordpress does not allow uploading of mp4 file.
As a teacher, I believe in collaborative learning. I set projects that requires my students to work in team.
First, I impress on them the concept of marriage value: 1+1 > 2. Value creation arises when the value of the whole is more than the sum of individual parts. A quote that I used in class to emphasize the importance of working in a team to achieve synergy.
CBD, Singapore
“We are primarily designers. Although we care that the water stays out and that the building stands up and will last over time, we argue most for the design, for that’s the unique point of view that we bring to the table. It’s important that the contractor argue equally his concerns, and the owner the financial aspects. In that creative tension between individuals, something is added to the process.” – David Charles (Architect)
Second, I allow them to choose their team members so that they are familiar with each other. However, if everyone is new to each other, such as in an induction module, I will be responsible to allocate the students into different teams. I will spend time to understand their profile and background so that there is a good mix of students with different skills in each group. For example, for my real estate development project, I will try to make sure that there is an architect, an engineer, a real estate consultant, and a finance professional in each of the teams.
Due to their diverse background, working in a team would necessarily involves a give-and-take attitude and sometimes coping with frictions. To be successful in their career, my students have to learn how to be a good team player, manage their emotions and handle uncooperative members.
At the end of the project, I ask them to reflect on their journey and how they could have work better as a team.
Finally, I conduct peer review to minimize free rider problem.
