Self-reflection survey: collaboration reflection with the IDG framework

In this reflective activity, students develop their collaboration skills using the Inner Development Goals (IDG) framework. Through repeated self-reflection, they learn to better understand themselves in group settings, while strengthening empathy, self-expression, and critical thinking. This activity runs parallel to a group project and supports students in growing intentionally throughout their collaboration.

Activity goal
Practice skills | Reflect
When
In class
Where
Offline | Online
Duration
< 10 minutes| < 30 minutes
Group size
Small | Medium | Large

Step-by-Step

Step 1

Initial reflection (Week 1): Students complete a short survey about their collaboration behavior, based on IDG competencies related to teamwork. Questions are linked to recognizable group work situations, such as: “What do I do when someone dominates the discussion?” or “How do I respond to conflict?” The results provide individual focus points that students take with them into the group process.

Step 2

Persona reflection (Week 3–4): Midway through the project, students reflect again, but now from the perspective of a fictitious role or persona such as “the quiet student” or “the dominant planner.” This exercise helps them to recognize and discuss both their own behavior and that of others. Students exchange experiences and identify which behaviors are constructive for group dynamics.

Step 3

Final reflection (Week 6): At the end of the collaboration, students complete the IDG survey once more and write a short personal reflection on their development, including an evaluation of the group dynamics. They highlight what they have learned about themselves and others, and which skills they want to continue developing.

Tip 1

Work with peer feedback: Invite peers to share brief observations about positive behaviors they noticed in the group.

Tip 2

Adapt personas to context: Create personas that match your discipline or course context, e.g. “the results-driven lawyer” or “the hesitant researcher.”

Tip 3

Take a look at ‘The impossible task challenge’ as a good way to start the collaboration of a group!

IDG framework or adapted reflection survey (e.g., Google Forms, Mentimeter, Canvas)

Persona cards or digital role descriptions

Consider the tools and materials mentioned here as suggestions. In many cases it’s possible to use alternative tools. Please turn to the Learning & Innovation team of your faculty first to see which online and offline tools are available and how to apply them.

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