Teamwork

Part of these packages: Learning in teams, Learning in teams, Observe and design, Benchmark and design, Explore and create, Benchmark and create, Benchmark and plan

Supported by these technologies: TeamUp,

You divide the class into small teams of 4-5 learners that are optimal for collaboration. Each team has their own topic of inquiry that is related to the theme of the course. You let the learners suggest topics they are interested in and use the TeamUP tool to match learners and topics, using information stored in mental notes.

1. Preparation

Set up the TeamUp tool for your class by adding names, portraits and mental notes of learners. See TeamUp tool manual, part 1 ‘Add and edit learners’ for more information.

Your learners will be working in teams of 4, each team with a specific topic. Plan your course (or part of it) accordingly.

Decide whether you grade teams or individuals.

2. Introduction

Present the theme of the course in a way that gives students some basic information, but leaves open many questions.

Ask learners to think about what they would like to study in this theme.

3. Activity

Team work usually spans multiple lessons, often an entire course.

Ask students to suggest topics for inquiry. Use your judgment to rephrase, alter or reject suggestions.

Collect topics in the TeamUp tool.

Let learners vote for their favorite topic and create the teams. See TeamUp tool manual, part 2 ‘Forming teams’.

Ask learners to start their teamwork.
Starting each lesson, show the TeamUP team view to remind everyone of the teams and their topics.

4. Assessment