Dr. Jennifer Casey
Seminars, Special Seminars
Description
Flyer: Dr. Jennifer Casey Flyer
Title: Implementing Effective and Inclusive Group Work in the STEM Classroom
Abstract: Students learn more and earn higher grades in student-centered, collaborative instruction than in lecture-based instruction. Research also suggests that group work may improve equity in course outcomes. Given the many documented benefits of collaborative learning, instructors have good reason to integrate group work into their classrooms, however, incorporating this form of active learning in large classroom settings can be difficult. Additionally, a critical aspect is being overlooked – is incorporating group work enough, or are specific aspects of implementation required in order to achieve a desired outcome? While the literature contains many recommendations for high-impact practices, my work focuses on investigating which features are critical for obtaining an intended outcome, as well as determining who truly benefits from these interventions. In this seminar, we will specifically focus on the impact of group work on student engagement in remote chemistry classrooms, as well as the effect group work has on student sense of belonging across multiple STEM disciplines. The picture that emerges is one that underscores the importance of having thoughtful and deliberate integration of group work into a course – preliminary data suggests having students simply work in groups is insufficient to see improved student outcomes. Depending on the overall goal an instructor is hoping to achieve, they may need to focus on different elements of supportive group work. Furthermore, it is important that we confirm whether the practices we are using are having the desired impact given the effort required to implement structured group work, especially in high-enrollment courses.
