How can you structure group activities for digital learning?

1 Define the goals

The first step to structure group activities for digital learning is to define the goals of the activity. What do you want your learners to achieve, learn, or practice? How will the activity align with the learning objectives and outcomes of the course? How will you assess the performance and participation of the group members? Having clear and specific goals will help you design and evaluate the group activity.

2 Choose the format

The next step is to choose the format of the group activity. Depending on the goals, the size of the class, and the available time, you can choose different formats such as pairs, small groups, or large groups. You can also decide whether the activity will be synchronous, asynchronous, or a combination of both. Synchronous activities require learners to interact in real time, while asynchronous activities allow learners to work at their own pace and schedule. A combination of both can offer flexibility and variety.

3 Design the tasks

The third step is to design the tasks that the group members will perform. The tasks should be relevant, meaningful, and challenging for the learners. They should also be clear, concise, and structured, with specific instructions, criteria, and deadlines. You can use different types of tasks such as problem-solving, case studies, simulations, debates, or projects. The tasks should encourage collaboration, communication, and creativity among the group members.

4 Assign the roles

The fourth step is to assign the roles that the group members will play. Roles can help distribute the workload, foster accountability, and enhance participation. You can assign roles based on the skills, interests, or preferences of the learners, or let them choose their own roles. Some examples of roles are leader, recorder, presenter, researcher, or reviewer. You can also rotate the roles among the group members to give them different perspectives and experiences.

5 Provide the tools

The fifth step is to provide the tools that the group members will use to complete the tasks and communicate with each other. The tools should be accessible, reliable, and user-friendly for the learners. You can use various tools such as online platforms, video conferencing, chat rooms, forums, wikis, blogs, or podcasts. The tools should support the format, the tasks, and the roles of the group activity.

6 Monitor the progress

The sixth and final step is to monitor the progress of the group activity. You should provide regular feedback, guidance, and support to the group members. You should also encourage peer feedback and self-assessment among the group members. You can use different methods such as surveys, quizzes, rubrics, or portfolios to monitor and evaluate the progress of the group activity. You should also celebrate the achievements and acknowledge the challenges of the group activity.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?