Aims of group work

The aims of working in small groups include the development of:

• intellectual understanding, abilities and skills
• communication, cooperative and teamwork skills such as planning, management, leadership and peer support
• personal growth (increased self esteem and self confidence)
• professional growth (development of professional standards, values and ethics)
• independence and increased responsibility for own learning
• reflective practices (reviewing and reflecting, planning for the future).

(adapted from Exley and Dennick, 2004:4)