Options

Some assignments say that you may work with a partner, or with a group (often some maximum size is specified). 

If the assignment suggests ("you may choose...") it is optional, but can be helpful.

If the assignment strongly suggests ("you should do this in a group") the assignment was specifically designed to be a bit more than one person can manage. 

Grading

All members of a group will receive the same grade.   However, if several members of a group claim that one (or more) other members really did not contribute,  or if one or members point out a member as a star performer,  I reserve the option to change grades for the member mentioned by up to about one third of the grade (usually less) assigned to the other members.    This grade change is not automatic and I may decide to talk to members of the group in order to try to find out if the blame (or credit) is justified or not.   This assignment of credit (or blame) by the group members must be done (in person, by email...) by the time the project is submitted.   Generally it will not result in a grade change for the group as a whole - so saying your assignment doesn't work because so-and-so messed up is not going to result in your getting a better grade - it will only (if I decide to change a grade) result in that person getting a lower grade. 

Why group work can be a Good Thing.

Group work can be very valuable experience in software development.  Some reasons for this follow (but not all the reasons)  :

1. Group work is the norm in most software development environments, so it is good to have some experience in working with other people, and figuring out how to work around their weaknesses and best utilize their strengths.
2. Group work enables me to assign slightly more interesting (difficult) project for the time allotted.
3. If you are a strong programmer, or have more experience in an area, working with those who are not so good is actually a very good way to learn the subject even better than you work working alone.   It is often said (and very true) that you learn something best by teaching it.   Don't be afraid of partnering with a programmer who is not as good as you are - it will probably result in better understanding for you.

Supervision

I do not normally supervise groups or group meetings.  Part of what I want you to learn with the group experience is how to work with others and if I am called on for conflict resolution or role assignment, you will not learn this as well. 

However, if requested, I will find a way to meet with a group both to help mediate conflicts and to  provide guidance about how to work together.