Strength in Numbers? A Meta-Analysis of the Effects of Group Work on Postsecondary Students in the Biological Sciences

• In Event: Contemporary Science Teaching and Learning: Issues and Challenges

Abstract

To test the hypothesis that group work maximizes learning and course performance, we conducted a meta-analysis on studies reporting data on student achievement rates after experiencing group work in post-secondary biological science courses. The effect size indicates that on average student performance on examinations and concept inventories increased by 0.64 SDs when group work was utilized in a course, demonstrating group work has a medium to large effect on student performance. Trim and fill analyses and fail-safe n calculations suggest that the results are not due to publication bias. This study demonstrates implementing group work in post-secondary biology classes can increase student achievement, aiding colleges in their efforts to prevent high attrition rates and promote student learning.

Authors

• Emily Paige Driessen, Auburn University

• Cissy Ballen, Auburn University

• Sara Beth Ramsey, Auburn University