What we gained
1) Explain the experience of taking a test together, what did you gain by using this method?
*Taking a test together while definitely helpful, was a bit intimidating. I found myself constantly fearful of “group-think” and of not contributing, both of which were valid fears in this case and taught me the reason we all need to speak up.
2) If you chose not to use the answers that the group suggested, why…what was your reasoning?
* I did choose to go with the group on the questions although there were a few answers that I questioned. I decided on those questions that I should speak up and make the group question the answers as well rather than staying silent and acting alone because it did not seem fair to be the only one benefiting if I was right.
3) Do you feel that your academic integrity was compromised?
* Not at all. The point of the class is communication. I believe in this case our test showed whether or not we could work together, elect leaders, and help each other find the answers we all needed. In the business world this skill is far more valuable than knowing how to bubble in letters.
4) Do you think that someone was capitalizing on your academic knowledge…maybe the student that did not study?
* Absolutely and to be honest, good for them. Not studying is simply a gamble that I was not willing to make. Clearly those that didn’t study didn’t mind the risk and this time it paid off. I did not lose anything because by studying I gained peace of mind that my risk was smaller, not a guaranteed grade.
5) What is a situation that using a collaborative method of communication (taking a test) would not be beneficial?
* The only example I can think of is where “group-think” takes place. Every person in a group needs to take an active roll, if they do not the group may wind up down an easier but far less productive path.
6) What made you naturally choose to work in a group when I just laid down the tests and said good luck?
*We have been taught that there is safety in numbers. For example there is a poll the audience lifeline on who wants to be a millionaire and usually the audience is right. The risk looks far greater when you are alone in a decision than when other people agree.
7) Were there any rules, or did the classroom create the rules?
* There were a few rules but for the most part the class put unnecessary rules on the situation. We all agreed to approach the situation like there were no rules but yet we did not use every resource available to us. For example it took us till question 2o or so to realize we could ask the professor questions and it was the professor who had to suggest we leave the classroom to print something off.
