Characteristics of Effective Collaboration
In many cases, group work is not collaborative. Young people may assign individual tasks and only
come together at the end of the process when sharing their final products. Collaborative tech-
nology facilitates group work by providing an area for students to create as well as discuss.
As you design your unit, consider whether you’ve built into the assignment the opportunity for
collaboration. Use the following characteristics of effective collaboration as a guide.
Contribution to Process
      Actively works toward setting and meeting group goals
      Works to divide tasks equitably and fairly
      Performs duties associated with assigned roles
      Assists others who express a need for help
      Volunteers assistance to the group
      Participates in team meetings
      Is punctual and works within the timeline established by the group.
      Completes tasks and participates in discussions without needing to be reminded
Contribution to Project
      Identifies and shares new ideas
      Gathers, organizes, and shares relevant information
      Expresses opinions regarding project
      Expands the work of others
      Connects to the work of others
      Provides examples to extend the work of others
      Identifies need to edit work or change directions
      Helps other make connects or see the “big picture”
      Encourages others to contribute
      Defends contributions
Contribution to Group
      Listens to team members
      Is empathetic to the feelings of group members
      Acknowledges all viewpoints
      Speaks up to clarify peer statements
      Contributes new perspectives to the group
      Commends the good work of group members
      Offers constructive criticism of group members
      Encourages ongoing evaluation of group collaboration
      Facilitates group consensus or decision making process
      Involves all members in the group
      Promotes a positive atmosphere for group work
      Refrains from dominating discussions
Annette Lamb - ABCs of Web 2.0