Advantages
Allows for student flexibility in collaboration via remote access to the online platform (Wikispaces) whilst tracking individual contribution. Fosters constructive communication and group work skills in a relaxed and collegiate environment. Removing the pressure of a group mark element often encourages a more earnest effort from students and builds positive rapport between students. Wikispaces is an online platform that lends well to a wide variety of disciplinary tasks in an easy to navigate interface. The option to integrate text, images, video and readily transfer to virtually all HaSS disciplines.
Challenges
Can include a significant marking load in large cohorts. Course coordinators should seek to employ tutors to assist with this process. Tutors are also well positioned to mark their own students as an additional means of informal identify verification that involves observing students' writing style and input in class activities.
Tips for implementation
Allow some dedicated class time for students to meet and work in their groups. This is also important to providing digital equity (access to computers and reliable internet access) for all students.
How it supports academic integrity
All works are easily processed via Turnitin. Working within a group dynamic also encourages students to work integrously as part of a shared accountability to respond adequately to the task.