Guide to: Assessed Group Work
This Assessed Group work policy explains what you can expect when your work is assessed as part of a group, and what is expected from you in return. It aims to make group work fair, clear and supportive for everyone.
Please Note: The guide includes summarised information and therefore, it is essential that you read the related policy and/or regulation in full. To search for specific information, you can use CTRL+F and search for keywords throughout the page.
To be read in conjunction with: Assessed Group Work Policy
Introduction
Group work is part of many courses and helps you build skills like teamwork, communication and problem solving.
This policy explains what you can expect when your work is assessed as part of a group, and what is expected from you in return. It aims to make group work fair, clear and supportive for everyone.
What to expect from group work
- Group work isn’t always judged on the final outcome alone; you may also be assessed on how your group worked together.
- You will be given clear guidance before you begin, including the task, your roles, and how you’ll be assessed individually and as a group.
- Groups should be the right size so everyone has a clear role; too few people may mean more time is needed, and too many can leave some students without a meaningful part to play.
- You’ll be told what to do if problems arise and who to contact for support.
- Opportunities to meet and work together will be built into your timetable where possible.
- You’ll be guided on how to work together without plagiarising or colluding.
- In some cases, you may give or receive peer feedback as part of the assessment.
Examples of how you might be assessed with group work
Database group project (History)
You’ll work in a small group to create a shared database from historical sources. You’ll submit the database as a group and also write an individual report reflecting on your contribution and decisions. This helps you build teamwork skills while working on a larger, more meaningful project together.
Group workshops (History)
You’ll take part in group discussions and activities during workshops. While there’s no group submission, you’ll write an individual learning journal reflecting on what you learned through working with others.
Group presentation (Cancer Sciences)
You’ll work in a group to prepare and deliver a presentation. Your mark will include the group presentation, peer feedback on contributions, and an individual reflection to help you think about how the group worked.
Group presentation (Medicine)
You’ll collaborate in a group to solve a real-world clinical scenario and present your findings. You’ll receive a shared group mark for the presentation and an individual mark for a written report based on your learning.
Where to get support
Supportive Resources:
If you are having difficulties:
If you are having difficulties with group work, don’t wait, get support early. You can speak to:
- Your Course Convenor or lecturer
- Your Advisor of Studies
- A named staff contact for the group project
You may also find it helpful to:
- Raise issues with your group early
- Keep a record of your contributions and communication
Staff are there to help resolve issues and make sure the process is fair.
Related documents and guidance
Key Policy: Assessed Group Work Policy
Related policies and guidance:
FAQs
What if someone in my group isn’t contributing?
Speak to your group first. If the issue continues, contact your course advisor. They can step in and support or adjust how work is assessed.
Will everyone get the same mark?
Not always. In many cases, individual contributions are taken into account, but sometimes group marks are shared, this should be explained in advance.
Can I fail because of my group?
It depends on the assessment design. You should be told clearly how marks work and what happens if you or others don’t participate.
What if I have personal circumstances affecting my contribution?
You should let staff know as soon as possible. Your situation can be considered under the University’s support and good cause processes.
Is group work the same as collusion?
No. Group work is allowed and expected, but you must follow the guidance given about what should be done together and what must be individual.
Who do I go to if things go wrong?
Start with your course team or named contact. If needed, you can also use formal processes like complaints or appeals.