Table 1 Measures to increase effectiveness of learning groups
| Â | Creating the groups | Structuring learning activities | Facilitating group interactions |
|---|---|---|---|
Important factors for creating effective face to face and virtual learning groups [32] | Group size Group heterogeneity | Positive interdependence Accountability | Developing cooperative group skills Developing group norms |
Methods for promoting effective learning groups in the RIPPLE activity | Ensured small groups (up to eight students) and mixture of UTAS & UNDANA students (min two per group) and genders | Guide book Students followed up by local academic to ensure tasks (generation of one page abstract & questionnaires) was completed on time | Guide book Lecture on working in collaborative small groups Email support from academics at both universities to troubleshoot difficulties |