First year Computer Science students reflect on their group work experience at high school

What is it about?

We interviewed 84 computer science first years just as they arrived at university, and asked them to reflect on their experiences of working and studying with others at school. We asked for examples of group activities they had experienced, and whether they thought group work was a good way to learn. We also asked if they would have preferred to do more as a way of gauging their attitude towards group work at university. We discovered that many students had experienced little or no group work organised by teachers. Many students would have preferred more collaboration and projects in their school computer science studies. We also discovered that some preferred study groups organised by students themselves over formal group study organised by teachers. Overall, around half of the students viewed their school experience of working with others positively. Those who felt doubtful about working with others at university dislike group work because some members don't contribute their fair share, which confirms previous research on the subject.

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Photo by Brooke Cagle on Unsplash

Photo by Brooke Cagle on Unsplash

Why is it important?

Computer Science students have a reputation for disliking working with others, but they need to learn to study and work in groups and teams, because that is how most workplaces are organised. Computer Science students are also the most likely of all subjects to drop out of their studies during the first year, which is concerning for national economies as well as the students themselves, as technology specialists are in short supply. Finding out the experiences and preferences of first years who are embarking on their computer science studies helps their lecturers and course planners to devise learning activities to engage students while strengthening their teamworking skills. Adapting activities to ensure the work is shared fairly helps reassure those who are doubtful about group work. All efforts to improve students' first year experience are helpful in keeping them on track to progress to second year.

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