It’s a reality no NUS student can escape from.
To some, it makes their palms get all sweaty. To others, it’s a brilliant opportunity to meet new people. And no, we’re not talking about rides onboard a stuffy shuttle bus.
We’re talking about our favourite school activity – group projects.
Group projects are a permanent fixture in student life. Our experience with our group assignments can make or break our semester. While most of these assignments eventually come to an end, the journey can feel like a long, drawn out torture.
So how are we to predict if our group projects are going to be a lost cause? Here are five common telltale signs your group project is starting to head down a path paved with regrets. Save yourself the trouble, take action now.
1. The Anythings
The problem: When nobody is willing to commit to anything. With this group, no concrete plans can be made.
What to do: The burden now falls upon you to take a stand. This is your time to shine and be the reluctant leader. Who knows, perhaps this is a just a phase where everyone is still trying to get to know one another.
2. The Too-Busy-for-You
The problem: With this group, it seems like you are the only person with free time. Suddenly everyone around you has a dental appointment every other week or training every other day. Face-to-face meetings? Dream on.
What to do: In this case, you have two options – to take things online; or to delegate work early. This way, each member can work on their assigned parts. Just don’t forget to have one person stringing the whole assignment together.
3. The Mutes
The problem: They come across as the dumb cousins of the ‘Anythings’. For some reason, they just do not reply to your messages. We’re not talking about a 5-minute delay in replying, we’re talking days here. Sometimes talking to them is as good as talking to yourself – which you’ll be very good at once you’ve worked with these guys.
What to do: Let’s give them the benefit of doubt – maybe they are shy. Maybe they are swamped with other assignments. Arrange for a meeting, break the ice. They will eventually talk – because every student know very well that assignments don’t write themselves… even if they’re expecting you to write the whole thing.
4. The Antagonists
The problem: Who wouldn’t mind getting some feedback? Unless of course it is rarely ever constructive. In this situation, there is more tearing down than building up going on.
What to do: Start by asking why they disagree. For all we know, it is grounded on very real concerns. Let them know that shooting down ideas without offering alternatives is not appreciated.
5. The Dramatics
The problem: Looks like things might have gotten personal. Tensions are running high and emotions are all over the place. At this point, you are probably wondering if the group can just move on. Probably not.
What to do: You mean besides grabbing some popcorn to watch if this gon’ be good? Best to keep your head in the game. Being straightforward helps. Once your group dynamics has reached this level, ain’t nobody got time for niceties. The group’s goal is still to complete the assignment.
Are there any other telltale signs we’ve missed? Do you have any other tips to cope when group assignments just do not go your way? Tell us on our Facebook page.
Disclaimer: All chats pictured in this story are fake messages created on mobile apps. No real screenshots were used. Any similarity is purely coincidental. Just sayin’.