Effectiveness of Group Assignments in Assessing Knowledge Acquired among University Students in Arusha Region, Tanzania

Salim Ally
Head of School; Gidahababieg Secondary School,
P.O Box 233- Endasak. Hanang’ District
Email: arajigaamani2014@gmail.com

Dr. Paul Raphael Kitula
Lecturer; St. Augustine University of Tanzania (SAUT), Arusha
P.O Box 12385 – Arusha, Tanzania
Email: kitula07@gmail.com

Abstract: The study assessed the effectiveness of group assignments on assessing knowledge acquired among university students in Arusha region. Specifically, the study investigated the effectiveness of university lecturers on monitoring group assignments and identifying methods used by university lecturers to ensure effective use of group assignments. Qualitative and quantitative approaches were employed. Eighty university students, 40 lecturers and 4 examination officers were sampled using stratified and purposive sampling techniques. Questionnaires were used to collect data from lecturers and students, while interview guides helped the collection of qualitative data from the examination officers. The instruments were validated using experts and the reliability was determined using split half method and the calculated reliability coefficient was 0.82. Data were analyzed using descriptive analysis whereas mean scores, frequencies and percentages were generated by use of SPSS. Qualitative data was analyzed thematically alongside research questions and the results were presented in words supported by direct quotations. The study found out that lecturers perceived themselves as competent on using group assignments but most of the students were not satisfied with how the whole process of group assignment was conducted. However, both students and lecturers acknowledged the importance of group assignments on assessing the acquisition of knowledge. Despite the shortfalls, the study concluded that group assignments are effectively used to assess learning acquisition among university students. The study recommended for more seminars and workshops for the lecturers so as to enhance their competence in using group assignments while assessing the acquisition of knowledge among students.