Insights from the use of Gardner’s notions of Mindset: group work

Abstract

A body of literature asserts that group work can be beneficial in enhancing learning and in developing specific skills among students. This research builds on the literature and on Gardner's (2006a) five notions of mindsets: disciplined, synthesising, creation, ethical and respectful, as a descriptive framework to explore and understand the benefits and skills learnt or developed through group work. Gardner describes mindset as a way of thinking and acting. A qualitative research project was undertaken in a New Zealand university using in-depth interviews with post-experience students. The findings suggest that, though the post-experience students do possess skills that enabled them to integrate diverse perspectives, make new connections with shared knowledge and evaluate critically, they often lack specific mindsets that are critical in organisations that rely on group work to enhance their productivity.