A tale of two team formation methods: Innovative ways to form student teams

Abstract

Given the preponderance of teams in business schools, and their effect on student learning and experience, it is important to carefully consider team formation. While random assignment, student choice and various professor chosen methods have been considered, they have drawbacks. Therefore, this paper explores two methods using similar student motivation—either for the course or a topic—as the mechanism for team assignment. Three classes were surveyed about their experiences. Aspects examined included individual contribution, and team satisfaction and environment, as well as qualitative experience. The results suggest that these methods can be effective, assuming they align with course goals and context, and students strongly recommend using them.

Keywords:

• Group formation
• motivation work
• team formation