1) What will be your group's name? “The Capital Gang”

The first name posed to the group was “The Capital Gang,” because it was believed that we all lived reasonably close to Washington DC. After the name was suggested, we found out that Anthony lived in Syracuse. The thing was, this designation seemed to resonate with each member, as Anthony was fine with the name “The Capital Gang.” It was even suggested that we change the name to “Anthony and the Capital Gang,” but Anthony preferred not to be spotlighted in this regard, and so we are “The Capital Gang.”

Dr. Roblyer suggested a role for each member of our group when she put the group together. She most likely did this scientifically because she did poll each one of us at the start of the class. As for the “Capital Gang,” she did a wonderful job. We are all happy with our positions in our group and eager to fulfill the requirements accorded to our positions.

3) How have you divided all the tasks equally and fairly among the group? Each of us were required to come up with a response to each question and once we all responded, each member was to vote on our favorite responses. In case of a tie, which did not occur, we would have re-voted until we come to a simple majority.

Each member of our group felt that by each of us commenting on all the questions, then voting on the best response, that we would all be contributing to the group effort equally and fairly. When in came to voting, while a unanimous vote would always be the best scenario, we agreed that in the case of a simple majority decision, the dissenting voter would have an opportunity to make his case and persuade at least two other members to see his viewpoint.

4) When and how often will you each visit your Study Group area? Everyday, with each member agreeing to respond within 48 hours to an original question or response.

This was pretty cut and dry as each member agreed that checking in everyday and responding within 48hours was feasible for each of us and a reasonable request of each group member.

5) What will you do if someone cannot complete her/his tasks? An agreed upon E-mail would be sent requesting their involvement within 24 hours. If they fail to respond within the allotted time, a second E-mail would go out, this time with the professor receiving a copy, getting her involved.

After toying with the idea of a public flogging, we came up with the following procedure: The active members of the group would agree to the wording of an E-mail, sent by one member and copied to all other group members, that would be intended to motivate the inactive member. Should there be no response within 24hours, a second E-mail would go out with a copy to Dr. Roblyer, involving her in the groups attempt to get the inactive member motivated.

6) What will you do in case there is disagreement on an issue? A simple majority vote would be enough to carry any decision. In case of a tie, the group would vote until the tie is broken.

We agreed that the dissenting member, in a simple majority could have an opportunity to persuade members of the majority over to their side. This procedure is spelled out in greater detail in question three.