Team Assignments

At the ISB, interpersonal awareness and working in teams is one of the key learning objectives and hence great stress is laid on team work. Nearly all courses taught at the the ISB have a graded team work component. Therefore, for the academically inclined it would be worthwhile to note that a sub-optimal group performance has the potential to spoil overall grades despite one's otherwise good performance in individual components.

Team work will be a lot of pain but despite the accompanying sweat and risks, I strongly believe one should embrace it and try to make maximum use of group projects. Collaborating among cohorts with no hierarchical authority or formal rules of engagement to deliver productive work is a precious experience that is sure to come in handy during similar real life situations.

In fact a planned approach to team work can yield excellent returns, much better than what one can accomplish through individual effort. 

Core Terms:

Your core term groups will be formed via random allocation by the college. The first grouping would continue for the first two terms followed by another group formation for the remaining two core terms. Chances are high your core term study group members along with your quad mates would form your inner friend circle at the ISB.

Diverse as our world is, it will always be the case that not all group members will bring in equal levels of motivation. The spectrum of participative enthusiasm may spread from 'free rider' to 'champion crusader'. My suggestion to those who strive for excellence is to seize initiative and try to ensure maximum participation from all group members. It might not be possible to get everyone to participate equally but its always worthwhile to try to run the group under maximum 'possible' efficiency. Remember that this is also the time that establishes your 'currency' in the ISB marketplace. People tend to notice your dedication for good work and later during elective terms this will be your gateway to high performing teams that keep away free riders.

Elective Terms:

Post the elective terms students will be free to choose their own groups. This is the time for you to approach like minded individuals as soon as ASA releases class student lists. Remember that there will be frenzy for group formation once classes start and you do not want to be in a position of disadvantage that forces you to partner with left overs.