Group Work Activities and Difficulties with Motor/Manual Dexterity

Remember, disability is a highly individualised experience. People with the same disability may have very different capabilities and/or needs, so it is always best to discuss any adaptations to practice, the environment or equipment directly with the disabled person themselves rather than making assumptions about what adjustments may be suitable.

Group work is a form of cooperative learning which aims to develop students knowledge, generic skills, (e.g. communication skills, collaborative skills, critical thinking skills) and attitudes. The ability to participate effectively in group work or team work is seen as a desirable employability skill and should be considered part of every learner’s educational experience.

Difficulties associated specifically with motor/manual dexterity difficulties are unlikely to have a significant impact on group work unless there is a strong practical element or the need to take notes/engage in writing.

Depending on the nature of the impairment, the group should agree how to compensate for the difficulty, for example, by photocopying notes, or by sharing out practical tasks in a way that allows the maximum participation by the disabled student; for example, by the disabled student taking more responsibility for the research/reading element within the group whilst others do the note making/writing up.

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