This contract is based on trust which gives purpose, operating standards, rules and direction to the team. When individuals join a team, a common perception is that they lose their individuality and their achievements are minimized. There is a also a perception that teams are cumbersome, take the wrong direction to solving a problem or are havens for free-riders while others do all the work. The fact is, students engaged in a team effort to accomplish a goal or objective are more successful than one person alone. A study group needs to progress through these steps, and does not function effectively unless consensus is reached at each stage.
Consensus regarding goals and purpose is the most critical stage in group effectiveness.
Groups must work out their goals and purposes in terms understood and accepted by all. Next, consensus regarding procedures to be used to achieve the goals must be achieved. The group needs to identify tasks that are to be completed, decide who will complete each task and decide the timeline for completion of tasks. Consensus about completion of the job is essential. The group goes on to determine what the final product will consist of that demonstrates completion of the goals.