Why we are including this example

Activity

Purpose

Each Module contains a Big Problem of the Week^TM. In this problem, you will work a group to apply the physics concepts you are learning to real (and sometimes complicated) situations. This is based on a learning strategy often used in medical and dental schools. This week's assignment is to get acquainted with your group and make plans for your work together going forward.

Task

Use the discussion board following this page to introduce yourself to your group. What should your group know about you, your interests, and how you like to work?

Each Big Problem of the Week^TM is designed to go beyond the straightforward problems you'll see in examples. You will not be given all the information you need to solve the problem. Together with your group, you will identify what else you need to know and find ways to obtain that information. Then, you will bring these pieces together to create your group's solution.

Each week, you will assume a different role in your group. The rotating roles are:

Leader - makes assignments and keeps discussion on topic
Recorder - takes notes of important discussion points
Number Cruncher - makes calculations as necessary
Questioner - questions everything to make sure everything is taken care of ("Why can we assume that? What if this happened?" etc.)
Publisher - compiles the group's solution into the form to be submitted, then submits the solution

You should make assignments for which group members will fill each role next week and how the roles will rotate going forward. In addition to the rotating roles, every group member is expected to contribute to the discussion and research any necessary external materials each week.

Some Tips on Forming a Team of Strangers

Some Tips on Making Sure Everyone Contributes (Dealing with Lazy Group Members)

With this in mind, write a contract that all members of your group will sign and submit as this week's "problem." What will you expect of yourself and other group members?

Additional Questions

What is one thing that all members of your group have in common (besides obvious things like being students in this class, etc.)?
What will be your group's nickname?

Criteria

You will submit your work as a group. The rubric is included with the submission page .