Group Selection Methods and Contribution to the West Point Leadership Development System (WPLDS).

摘要

Group work in an academic setting can consist of projects or problems students can work on collaboratively. Although pedagogical studies have shown the potential benefits of group work for learning, not a lot of studies examine which group selection method is best for certain types of learning. At the U.S. Military Academy, Cadets are not only expected to graduate as adaptive leaders, but also as individuals who can communicate and interact effectively in diverse settings as outlined in the West Point Leadership Development System (WPLDS). Three group selection methods were investigated using a short survey in a sophomore level math course: self-selection, selection using a measure of academic and geographic proximity, and random selection by the instructor. The data suggests a distinct advantage for Cadets in gaining confidence to work with others if the instructor uses geographic and academic proximity to select project partners.