3.4 Students will be able to collaborate effectively in a group setting within the discipline.

Goal 3.4 is for students to be able to collaborate effectively in a group setting within the discipline. Teaching students to work in a group effectively is important because students get to learn pros and cons of group work. It gives them the opportunity to learn how people get their work done differently and how they manage their time. Being able to work in a group setting is key because a lot of jobs focus on how well you can work with other people and maintain good relationships with them.

My first artifact is from my introduction to ecology and evolution class and it was the first time I ever worked with a group for a whole semester. It was probably one of the most challenging experiences I have faced. I was placed in a group where things were done last minute, arguments happened often, and assignments were turned in late. However, instead of getting mad directly at them and making the situation worse, I just expressed my feelings to the professor at the end of the semester which was helpful. While things could have been a whole lot worse, I just made sure to avoid working with them again in future classes.

The second artifact is from my conservation biology class and it was another class where I had to work on the project for the majority of the semester. There was a lack of communication between my partner and I and assignments where done last minute because of that. However, I maintained a professional attitude towards my partner and made sure everything was turned in on time. Sometimes group work is messy and stressful but it is important to take initiative and do the best you can despite the situation.