Group Contracts for Team Work
A group contract or team agreement establishes collaboration and clear expectations from the beginning of the group task. It requires input and agreement from each group member on the direction and structure of the group task and provides a framework for conflict resolution if it arises. It ensures equitable contributions and personal accountability.
Benefits of using a contract include:
- Protects group members
- Increases feelings of community
- Ensures all have a voice
- Develops interpersonal skills
- Ensures equitable contributions
- Aids with project and time management
The contract could cover expected behaviour when interacting with their group members, the method and frequency of communication and meetings, and deadlines for when work is expected to be completed and shared with the group. It can include group roles, where appropriate, or a plan for how the students will approach the task.
It may also be helpful for students to briefly detail their other priorities, such as job and family commitments, and their study load. This will help students determine guidelines for group productivity and can deepen their understanding and empathy of the diverse needs of a team. These aspects are crucial for the development of communication and teamwork skills built through group work.
As some students will be more dominant than others in group settings, a structured template for the group contract is essential to ensure input from each member. Providing time in class for students to create their group contracts allows the educator to monitor group dynamics and provide support when needed, and ensures the task is student-led and self-motivated. This is best done in the first class when student groups are formed, but if time doesn’t allow this, it is important that the template be explained verbally, either in class or through a video, to ensure the contract is completed correctly.
Another option is to have students come up with their own group contract, or to determine the necessary components as a class for a collaborative approach.
The University of Newcastle acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands within our footprint areas: Awabakal, Darkinjung, Biripai, Worimi, Wonnarua, and Eora Nations. We also pay respect to the wisdom of our Elders past and present.