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Informing Science + IT Education Conference 2003 Proceedings
| Informing Science + IT Education Conference |
| Pori, Finland June 24-27, 2003 |
| Problem Based Group Learning in IT in Higher Education: Reflection and Experiences |
| Elizabeth Hobson and Carmen Joham |
| University of South Australia, Australia |
| University of South Australia, Australia |
| This paper describes a number of issues that have arisen using some of the current methods for forming groups for |
| collaborative group projects and how group interactions and group learning support student progress and |
| development. The use of group projects prepares students for the workplace of tomorrow where they will |
| encounter having to collaborate in teams. Firstly, the paper discusses the importance of IT subjects in universities, |
| specifically addressing the importance of computer literacy among students. The paper then draws on the |
| instructors’ reflections on field work undertaken when delivering a number of courses and introduces, in a narrative |
| style, some crucial indicators (key factors) which impact on group work within IT education. A number of |
| preliminary suggestions addressing group work learning in the early stages of forming the group will be discussed. |
| Furthermore, some of the students’ views (that is, concerns) and specific experiences will be described to highlight |
| the importance of group learn-ing. |
| Keywords: group work, IT education, collaboration, group projects, computer literacy |
ISSN
1535-07-03
Unless otherwise indicated, this paper has undergone blind external review by three or more reviewers.
Types of Papers: A Best Paper, Regular Paper, Short Paper, Informal Paper,
Unrefereed Panel Paper
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