With the tenacious amount of group projects we have here at Bryant, it’s inevitable that you will endure one with an ever so painful group. Her Campus came up with a few examples of some groups you might encounter, and ways to go power through these situations.
1) The group member that never shows
Discuss their absence at the next meeting with your group. The best decision to make here would be to confront the group member as a group either after class, or if they don’t show to that either, sending them an email or text, cc’ing the rest of the group. If they continue to not shape up, informing your professor as a team is always an option.
2) The group member that says they’ll do something, but never actually does it
Again, talk to your group. The key to issues in group projects with certain individuals is deciding as a team the best method to improve the situation.
3) The bossy group member
This one can be a little tricky, especially if they are the proclaimed group leader. Sometimes the best thing to do here is lay back and let them lead. If it becomes too unbearable, or is in a situation where there isn’t meant to be a group leader, try seeing how the rest of the group feels. If they agree, come to a consensus on how to approach that group member. Most people when told they are coming off a little too strong will take your word for it and try to lay off a bit.
4) The group member that tries but just doesn’t know what they’re doing
It is rather difficult dealing with someone who is trying, but just doesn’t really understand the concepts of the course or project. Try helping them out with concepts and explaining in detail a little bit more about the ongoing project. Sometimes saying aloud a few times the problem you’re trying to solve as a group can help yourself lay out the issue, and possibly come up with new ideas! Encourage them to ask questions on things they might not get. This can be a great way to have a “devil’s advocate” role to second guess the steps you and the rest of your group are taking. This helps ensure you on the right track towards success.
5) The awkward group
As we know, group projects can be very tough. However, nothing makes a group project worse than having your group be flat out awkward with communication. The best way to solve this issue is by conducting more frequent group meetings. Even if there isn’t much to be done, it’s good to have face time to try to break the ice.
6) The group that doesn’t want to do any work
We all have that group that ends up doing absolutely no work, leaving you to do everything. This is the ultimate definition of an uneven workload, and the best thing you can do is talk to the professor. In these situations it’s difficult to consult the rest of the group seeing as they either won’t respond, or say they’ll help out and most likely will not.
7) The group that talks too much
Now in these situations its great the group is interested in the project, and excited to be part of a group. However, there are boundaries when it comes to work. You can always put do not disturb on certain group chats if you feel overwhelmed by the conversations. Another way to deal with this is simply confronting the group about how you are a bit frustrated with the amount of communication over the project. Ask for some limit to the amount of days that the project is discussed, or even a time frame within certain days.
Remember collegiettes, it only lasts for one semester. You can do it!