Rules and Guidelines for Discussion and Written Work

Small group work

You will greatly regret any social friction you cause among your workgroup.

Not everyone in the group is equally quick, but if you don't mutually adapt the pace to keep everyone in the small group at the same pace, then not all students will be able to contribute, which will harm the whole group.

It is assumed that all progress made on assigned problems is the shared intellectual property of the group. Nevertheless, all written work that is turned in must be written or typed by the individual student. Copying without understanding is not against the law, since we can't enforce such a law, but is a bad idea for obvious reasons. Don't forget: exams are not done in groups!

Working together outside of class on homework is OK, and in fact is encouraged.

Discussions as one large group

Always listen to whomever is speaking.

When speaking, use good grammar - it helps you think more clearly.

If you disagree with someone, raise your hand. Do not be rude or condescending about your disagreement, but it is equally disrespectful to let something important pass without comment.

Remember whom you are addressing. If it is someone other than the teacher, then look at that person, and attempt to formulate an answer to that person.

Remember: this framework for discussion models the kind of thing you will want to enforce in your own classrooms.

Written work

Please read the Problem Report Tips on pages 11 - 12 of your course packet.

Not all groups will get equally far on each problem, or even go in the same direction. When we discuss a problem in one large group, you need to make sure you understand what other groups have done.

Ultimately, the responsibility for completing each assignment is YOURS ALONE. We may not do the whole thing in class. Sometimes, by design, we won't do any of it!