1. If I was working on a group project for a class and a group member was loafing, I
would communicate my concerns to the other group members. If the other
members had similar concerns, we could figure out a plan of action. One option
would be to express our concerns to the group member that’s loafing. If they
agree to put more effort in, we could assign them a specific responsibility. In the
case they aren’t willing to cooperate, I do believe myself and the other group
members have an ethical responsibility to report them to the instructor.
2. No, I don’t believe social loafing is always shirking. For example, a group may
designate specific tasks to its members. In this situation, if the group member
completes their part of the project, they aren’t shirking. However, they are still
social loafing, because they aren’t doing as much work as they would do on their
own.
I do believe there are times when shirking is ethical or justified. However, these
instances are rare. For example, if something traumatic happens to a member
during the time they are working on the project, it may be justified. In this situation,
they should communicate to the other members exactly what is going on with them.
3. No, I don’t think we should tolerate shirking on the part of U.S. students, just
because we are an individualist nation. If other nations aren’t willing to accept it,
why should we? No matter where you are from, you should do your part to help
out in a group setting. Your fellow group members and co-workers are
depending on you to do your part. It is your responsibility as an individual to
help contribute to what is trying to be accomplished.
4. I have three rules that will help prevent and discourage social loafing at UNT
Dallas. The first rule is to designate a group leader. Having a group leader is
beneficial in the success of the project. They will be responsible for keeping the
group organized and on task. They will help plan meetings and set deadline
dates for when certain parts of the project should be completed.