Should instructors evaluate students engaged in small-group work only by reviewing the products they create together?

Evaluating students engaged in small-group work solely by reviewing the products they create together is not sufficient for a comprehensive assessment of their learning and collaboration. While the end product is certainly important, it does not capture individual contributions or the group dynamics that influence the learning experience.

Instructors should consider multiple evaluation methods, including observing group interactions, assessing individual participation, and providing feedback during the collaborative process. This holistic approach allows for recognition of different roles within the group, understanding of how students communicate and resolve conflicts, and insight into their engagement and critical thinking throughout the project. By evaluating both the process and the product, instructors can gain a clearer picture of student learning, facilitate skill development, and promote a collaborative and inclusive learning environment.

Using just the final product as a measure would overlook the nuances of group collaboration and fail to account for individual efforts, potentially leading to inaccurate assessments of student performance and understanding. Therefore, it is essential to evaluate the process as well as the outcome to ensure a fair and comprehensive assessment of each student's learning experience.